TVSquad

If we have learned anything, it's that there's a big difference between being a casual viewer and a truly passionate fan. Whether that means spreading the word, doing charity work in the name of the show or just plain being crazy, fans of TV programs have found various ways to show their love. After some intense responses in the call for considerations post and deep deliberation within the TV Squad team, we have boiled down the list of shows with the most dedicated fanbases. Here, we have five of the finest contenders, each of them deserving recognition for their fans' contributions.

Yes, it's obvious that there will be fans angry at the results, regardless of who wins. American Idol fans, form an orderly queue and meet me in the parking lot. But before we have an epic throwdown, read after the jump and vote for the Readers' Choice.

Battlestar Galactica: Science fiction lovers are notorious for their tendency to be hardcore for their fandoms. To be perfectly honest, I was a bit worried when I was at this year's New York Comic-Con, sitting in that massive auditorium packed with brokenhearted BSG fans comforting each other over the last season. The sense of unity among this fanbase is well-known throughout the geek universe, and it was extra-obvious when the NYCC crowd started a spontaneous round of "So say we all!"

The Colbert Report: The Colbert Nation would probably kill for their glorious leader, which is why the world should be thankful that Stephen Colbert is a level-headed guy. In fact, fans have done more good than murder in the name of Colbert. From supporting the ongoing Wriststrong campaign to raise money for Donors Choose to pushing their man's name on the "Time 100" poll, viewers have shown that it despite the fact that the program is just a half-hour piece on Comedy Central, Colbert's effect is global.

How I Met Your Mother: There's an incredible sense of loyalty amongst this legendary fanbase. Passionate fans of HIMYM have steadily watched the show from the beginning, through thick and thin, through good episodes and awkward celebrity stunt casting. Fans have also made great efforts in beating the writers to the punch by trying to work out the identity of the mother before the final reveal. With theories constantly popping up all over the Internet, it's tough to believe they won't get it sooner rather than later.

Jericho: Fans of this show gained major bragging rights after managing to save their favorite program from cancellation. And with peanuts, no less! After they made their voices heard, the peanuts and other donations benefited various charities, all in the name of Jericho. Even after the show's second cancellation, the fans are working on finding a network that will take better care of their baby.

Moonlight: Even as we speak, Moonlight fans are working hard to bring their beloved show to a new home. This was another fanbase that I had the chance to observe first-hand at this year's NYCC, and I couldn't help but bleed a little from the ears every time the crowd screamed for Alex O'Loughlin and Jason Dohring. Not only is their love super-intense, but I wouldn't be surprised if it's a Moonlight fan prerequisite to have operatic training. Ow. This group has also done some admirable charity work, including multiple blood drives in the name of the show.

Be sure to check out the rest of the TV Squad Awards, and make your voice heard by voting for the Readers' Choice in each category! While you're at it, take a look at AOL's Best & Worst of TV poll.

EDIT: Looks like a lot of folks want to see Lost on this list. Remember that this is a combination of reader and TV Squad team input. Where were you Lost lovers in the call for considerations post?