Some of the most famous characters in fiction have iconic names that audiences will never forget, like Mr. Spock (Leonard Nimoy) from "Star Trek" or Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) from "The X-Files." These names are etched into the public consciousness, and have become larger than life, recognizable to those who don't even watch those programs. But every name in fiction has an origin, and often creators will name their characters after friends, relatives, old acquaintances, or even famous people from the past whose work had a profound effect on them. But sometimes, in unique circumstances, a writer or creator will give a name to a character that's inspired not by a famous person or loved one — but after a fan of their work.

More and more, fans and audiences are becoming as closely interwoven

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