[RP Advice] Unacceptable Portrayals, Ruined Characters (Uncanon Portrayals)

I wanna l highlight this matter NOW. As I have seen this thousands of times in the past. So, let’s make ONE thing clear right now; this is NOT aimed towards anybody, this is simply highlighting an RP community issue as a whole, as I have seen it on multiple places I RP in across the internet.

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This is unfortunately a thing that’s been going on as far back as I myself can remember. We all portray our characters how we feel they should be portrayed, and it’s not always canon. Thing is, some people do not accept different portrayals other than canon, and it leaves the wrong impression to some, that they no longer wish to RP anyone who portrays that specific character.

Yes, there was once I time where I too was met with an unacceptable portrayal, that left me questioning whether every person who portrayed said character, had the same idea. I felt like I could not trust any of them due to how many of said character, had been portrayed the same idea. There are many uncanon portrayals that made me uncomfortable, but I also spoke up about my discomfort and let said people know. Some were respectful to how I felt, others were not, but that’s sometimes how it is.

Regardless of portrayal, the lesson learned is that characters do not always have to be portrayed canon. Some different portrayals are actually really cool, and some are absolutely unacceptable, but those kind should remain in DMs or DISCUSSED FIRST. Don’t assume someone is comfortable with the portrayal of your chosen character. But, don’t completely block out interactions with said character just because some do not portray as you want them to.

-The mention of those completely unacceptable, are more-so Mature themes that SHOULD first be discussed. Mature themes are not completely unacceptable, but it should be discussed and made sure that your partner is completely fine with this first. However, SOME Mature themes should not be portrayed at all, they go beyond the borders of Mature and into a heavier trigger-based portrayal. If you disagree with these portrayals, let your partner know and ask for a lighter-themed idea.-

Be kind and respectful to your partners, regardless of how they portray a character. If their portrayal is bothering you, ask them politely if they could muse another idea, or politely dismiss them and thank them for their offer. Canon or uncanon, it matters not, please do not let a writer “ruin” a character for you. If you disagree with the portrayal, simply decline in a respectful way.