Fan-based platforms thrive during pandemic

Singapore, Sept. 20 -- When American actress Bella Thorne said she had made US$2 million (S$2.7 million) on subscription-based content platform OnlyFans in a week, the record-breaking amount raised eyebrows.

But the platform, known for its adult entertainment content, has long been seen as a safe, remote and lucrative way for content creators to make a living, even before it received celebrity attention.

During the pandemic, the platform's user base grew as more people stayed home.

For some on the platform, like a local full-time cosplayer who wants to be known only as Vanessa, its viability as a revenue stream is clear.

Ms Vanessa, who is in her 20s and cosplays under the name Kiyo, started an OnlyFans account in January. It became...