Although Onlyfans is certainly more exploitative, I would argue that this concept of one-way parasocial relationships has existed since basically the dawn of humanity and likely has roots to our earliest fundamental tribalistic nature.

I mean look at the extremely popular K-pop bands, fans get insanely invested into these groups, following them, bringing glowsticks to show support, etc. Or the entire Japanese idol movement for that matter.

Or think about how people stand in line for hours just to get the signature of somebody at a convention.

I think this is just the way a lot of people are wired. I don't know if it's bad or a good thing, it's just something I've noticed.