It is almost time for the Fall television season and while it is an exciting time as new shows debut, it can also be a frustrating time for many as well. In addition to the devastation when a favorite show has been canceled, viewers and fans have to deal with the dreaded cast and story line changes and are forced to make some difficult decisions.

The opinion expressed here are those of the writer and not that of The Nerdy Girl Express.  They may differ from others.

I am a faithful viewer of several shows that have undergone dramatic changes.  Two of my favorite characters and the actresses who played them departed their respective shows.  Nicole Beharie (Abbie, Sleepy Hollow) and Alycia Debnam-Carey (Lexa, The 100).  And because of their talent and popularity, fans are in an uproar.

I have heard many views across social media from fans who have angrily expressed that both actresses’ departures involved something more than “the end of the story line.” Accusations have be made by once loyal fans that show writers and creators had other motivations behind their decisions.  Some of these fans who taken up vocal arms, vowing to boycott watching these shows that they deem unfair to certain types of viewing audiences.  Many ugly words have been used.

To these fans, I acknowledge and feel your pain.  I’m upset and angry at the departures as well.  But can I say with 100% certainty that I know the reasons behind them? No.  I am not in the writers’ room or privy to any discussions between the shows, actors and networks.  I read the officially released information just like everyone else.  Recently my decision to support a show was called into question by former fans who disagreed with my decision, indicating that I didn’t have the facts. Several persons presented their views and opinions and I listened.  Did this change my decision?  Not at all.  Why? Because as a viewer, I prefer to judge the new season of the show once I have seen it.  Does everyone have to do the same?  Absolutely not, viewers are given the right to freedom of choice and can choose to watch or not watch.

It is extremely hard watching change happen on your favorite show.  As a fan and viewer, you may feel betrayed and lied to.  Additionally, you believe that you invested many hours (which you can’t get back) watching and supporting a show for nothing.  For this reason, it is understandable for expressions of anger to be made.  But keep in mind that although you may have a large faction of people who share your views and opinion, there is the other side who doesn’t.  Does that make you right and them wrong or vice-versa? No. Opinions are that of the individual.

It is my hope (though I don’t know if this could happen), that everyone with different views can speak freely without the fear of labels being thrown at them. Anyone can disagree with someone but it is how you respond that is the real challenge.  Social Media is powerful and how you chose to use that power is up to you.

Comments? Sound off below. Or tweet @thenerdygirlexp and @stacyamiller85 .