2024 wrap-up: The pop culture moments that kept us talking
From breakups that took us by surprise to comebacks we never saw coming, the year was also marked by scandals that shook the internet.
This year has been a whirwind of contrasts, giving us a mix of moments we didn’t even know we were craving in pop culture, alongside a handful we’d rather forget.
From breakups that took us by surprise to comebacks we never saw coming, the year was also marked by scandals that shook the internet, leaving us all talking.
As we look back on this rollercoaster of a year, we’ll dive into the highs that had us celebrating, the lows that left us stunned, and the downright bizarre events that kept us guessing.
So grab your metaphorical popcorn and let’s relive the highs, the lows, and the utterly bizarre moments that defined 2024. And yes, we’re here to dish, not judge. Mostly.
BENNIFER BREAKS UP... AGAIN
When Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez rekindled their early-2000s romance, the world collectively swooned. Their red carpet moments, PDA, and blended family were straight out of a rom-com. But alas, Bennifer 2.0 proved to be just as fleeting as its predecessor.
Reports of tension started surfacing mid-year, with sources citing “scheduling conflicts” and “clashing priorities.” Fans speculated endlessly, but the breakup announcement in August still hit hard, especially for Bennifer, who had called off their engagement in 2004, rekindled their love in 2021, and married in 2022.
The internet exploded with memes, think pieces, and heartfelt “we were rooting for you” posts. If nothing else, Bennifer reminded us that love is messy, even for Hollywood royalty.
THE RETURN OF OUR CHILDHOOD CRUSH: ADAM BRODY
Remember Seth Cohen from The O.C.? Adam Brody made a triumphant return this year, starring in a critically acclaimed indie film that had everyone buzzing. The role showcased his depth as an actor, proving he’s more than just the lovable geek we all fell for back in the day.
Social media was flooded with throwback clips and “where have you been all my life” tweets.
His charming demeanor and relatable persona have kept him in the hearts of many who grew up watching him on television. Brody's reemergence has sparked discussions about the impact of early 2000s television on today’s pop culture, reminding fans of simpler times.
LIAM PAYNE'S TRAGIC PASSING
In one of the most heartbreaking moments of the year, former One Direction member Liam Payne passed away unexpectedly in October.
His death sparked an outpouring of grief on social media, with fans around the world mourning the loss of a pop star whose voice had been the soundtrack to their youth. Payne's bandmates from One Direction—Harry Styles, Niall Horan, and Louis Tomlinson—each shared heartfelt tributes, reflecting on their shared experiences and the deep bond they formed during their time together in the band.
Styles posted an emotional tribute, expressing his sadness over losing not just a bandmate, but a brother. Horan recalled Payne's infectious spirit and talent, emphasising the lasting impact he had on both music and those who knew him. Tomlinson conveyed his heartbreak, vowing to keep Payne's memory alive through their shared music.
Tributes flooded in from friends, fans, and admirers, highlighting Payne’s contributions to music and the enduring legacy he leaves behind.
NEWJEANS, MIN HEE JIN AND HYBE LAWSUIT
The ongoing legal battle between Min Hee-jin, former Ador chief executive officer and Hybe has captivated the K-pop industry, particularly due to its implications for the popular girl group NewJeans.
The tensions escalated when Hybe accused Min of attempting to take control of Ador by selling shares and leaking confidential information. The situation worsened in April 2024 when Hybe initiated an emergency audit of Ador, alleging misconduct on Min’s part, including involvement in a sexual harassment case related to a former executive.
In October, the Seoul Central District Court dismissed Min Hee-jin's request to be reinstated as Ador CEO, citing lack of legal grounds and evidence. This ruling dealt a significant blow to Min, who had hoped to regain her position after being replaced.
Following the decision, Hybe pledged to stabilise Ador and support its artists. In retaliation, Min filed lawsuits against Hybe executives for defamation and interference with NewJeans' activities.
The conflict escalated further with accusations from Min that Hybe’s subsidiary copied NewJeans' concept for their new group. Hybe countered with claims of false accusations and breach of trust.
Amid the dispute, NewJeans members have shown support for Min. The ongoing legal battle could have far-reaching consequences for artist management in the K-pop industry.
BIG BANG'S MMA PERFORMANCE
When Big Bang took the stage at the 2024 Melon Music Awards (MMA), it was more than a performance, it was a cultural reset.
After a long hiatus, the trio of G-Dragon, Taeyang, and Daesung reunited on stage to deliver an electrifying set that thrilled fans and showcased their enduring popularity.
The performance began with G-Dragon showcasing his solo hits, including Untitled and Power, before transitioning into a collaborative piece featuring Taeyang and Daesung.
Their chemistry was undeniable, blending their individual styles into a captivating show.
Fans were ecstatic, with the atmosphere in the venue charged with excitement as they witnessed the iconic group's return. The performance culminated in a medley of two of Big Bang's biggest hits, Bang Bang Bang and Fantastic Baby, which sent the audience into a frenzy. The energy was infectious, and it was clear that Big Bang still holds a special place in the hearts of K-pop fans worldwide.
Big Bang's performance at the 2024 MMA was not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it was a triumphant return that reaffirmed their status as K-pop legends.
FOUR SEASONS ORLANDO BABY
The "Four Seasons Orlando Baby" phenomenon took the internet by storm in 2024, following a viral video that captured a toddler's excited response to the idea of staying at the prestigious Four Seasons Resort Orlando.
In the original clip, the young girl’s mother asks, "Who wants to go to the Four Seasons Orlando?" to which the child enthusiastically exclaims, "Me!" This simple yet heartwarming moment quickly went viral, racking up millions of views and sparking a wave of memes.
The toddler’s clear, expressive reaction struck a chord with audiences, leading to the video being shared and remixed across social media with humorous voiceovers, imagining the child’s thoughts in absurd scenarios.
What began as a viral moment soon grew into a cultural touchstone, with the "Four Seasons Baby" becoming synonymous with family vacations. The video’s widespread popularity demonstrates the power of social media to transform everyday moments into global phenomena.
UNFORGETTABLE OLYMPIC MOMENTS
The Paris 2024 Olympics gave us moments that were as breathtaking as they were heartwarming—sometimes even hilarious! From world records being shattered to athletes embracing in ways that made us go, “Wait, what just happened?” It was a celebration of human achievement and a reminder that, in a divided world, sports can still bring us together (or at least make us laugh).
One unforgettable moment came when a 16-year-old swimmer Thomas Heilman broke Michael Phelps' long-standing record, making us all feel like we should’ve tried harder in the pool.
Then there was the heartwarming scene of two rival gymnasts sharing a hug that melted the internet. Who knew flipping around in tight leotards could lead to such tender moments?
The Tokyo 2020 Olympics also gave us a gem, Mutaz Essa Barshim and Gianmarco Tamberi, the high jump duo who decided to share the gold medal because, apparently, winning together is way cooler than fighting over it. Barshim’s “This is beyond sport” quote should be on a Hallmark card somewhere.
Over in Paris, Turkish shooter Yusuf Dikec became an internet sensation at 51 for his “I’m too chill for this” approach to the 10-metre air pistol event, casually shooting with one hand in his pocket. Meanwhile, Kim Yeji from South Korea brought "main character energy" to the shooting range, making us wonder if she was secretly a sci-fi hero in disguise.
Another standout moment came from Australian breakdancer Rachael "Raygun" Gunn, who stole the spotlight at the Paris 2024 Olympics with her distinctive style and inventive moves.
Competing in the debut Olympic breakdancing event, she captivated audiences worldwide with her playful routines, incorporating quirky elements like "kangaroo hopping" and "swimming on the ground," breaking away from the typical power moves that dominate the sport.
And let’s not forget Chinese diver He Zi, who got a surprise proposal right after winning gold. Talk about making a splash, both in the pool and in her love life. The Paris Olympics didn’t just showcase athletic feats—they gave us heartwarming moments, viral sensations, and a reminder that sometimes, the best thing about sports is the people involved.
KATE MIDDLETON'S CANCER JOURNEY
One of the most poignant moments in pop culture in the year 2024, was the health journey of Catherine, Princess of Wales, also fondly known as Kate Middleton.
After revealing her cancer diagnosis in March, following a routine abdominal surgery in January, Kate’s story deeply resonated with the public. She had discovered malignant tissue during surgery and subsequently began preventative chemotherapy to reduce the risk of recurrence.
She shared an emotional update in September, announcing that she had completed her chemotherapy treatment. While expressing relief, she acknowledged the unpredictable and challenging nature of her journey, describing the past nine months as “incredibly tough.”
Despite positive news, Kensington Palace refrained from declaring her completely cancer-free, recognising the complexities of such treatments. However, her return to public life signified her strength and commitment to her causes, such as early childhood development.
SITI NURHALIZA'S DANGDUT PHASE
Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, Malaysia’s sweetheart, surprised fans in 2024 with a dangdut remake of her hit song “Aku Cinta Padamu,” blending jazz rhythms with the traditional sounds of dangdut. This new version sparked a wave of dance challenges and fan covers, solidifying her status as a living legend.
Her "Journey of Sound" concert on Dec 14, 2024, at Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur, where she performed alongside Indonesian singer Judika, highlighted her vocal range and the importance of cultural exchange between Malaysia and Indonesia. The concert, a mix of traditional and contemporary music, was a celebration of Siti's artistry and the musical traditions that have shaped her career.
Siti's ability to seamlessly merge genres has kept her relevant in the evolving music scene. Her dedication to promoting traditional music, particularly dangdut, while engaging with fans through social media, shows her commitment to honoring her roots while appealing to modern audiences.
KAPLA MOVIE CRAZE
“Kahar: Kapla High Council” became a hit, captivating audiences with its unique blend of heartwarming storytelling and intense action. Released on Nov 28, 2024, the Malaysian film, directed by Razaisyam Rashid, serves as both a prequel and sequel to Projek: High Council and follows the transformation of Kahar, a timid Form 4 student at Kolej Ungku Deramat (KUDRAT), into the ruthless leader of an underground bullying ring.
Set in 2005, the film explores Kahar’s moral dilemmas as he enters the brutal election competition, initially to protect his best friend but ultimately leading him down a dark path of power and oppression.
The story touches on themes of bullying, friendship, and family conflict, with Kahar’s journey from social invisibility to feared leader illustrating the pressures and complexities of adolescence.
Featuring a talented cast, including Amir Ahnaf as Kahar and Aedy Ashraf as Beja, the film’s gripping action sequences, particularly those showcasing Muay Thai, highlight Kahar’s character evolution. Critics have praised the film for its emotional depth and relevance, sparking important conversations about bullying and peer pressure in schools.
KRU COMEBACK
In a year that’s already packed with pop culture moments, KRU is here to deliver the ultimate ‘90s nostalgia bomb at their Konsert GenKRU on May 3, 2025, at Axiata Arena, Bukit Jalil.
After a five-year hiatus, the legendary Malaysian trio is ready to bring back the hits that had us all belting out “Jika Kau Tiada” in our bedrooms, and maybe a few questionable dance moves along the way.
Fans are encouraged to rock those flannel shirts, scrunchies, and chunky sneakers to fully embrace the '90s vibe—after all, it’s not just a concert, it’s a pop culture moment.
Expect KRU to deliver a blend of their iconic hits with new tracks, proving that they’re still the '90s pop legends we can’t help but love. With Icon Entertainment at the helm, this isn’t just a concert—it’s the pop event of 2024 that’s guaranteed to make you feel all the feels (and maybe even a bit of FOMO if you don’t grab tickets). So, get ready to sing, dance, and relive the '90s like it’s 1999!
WICKED FILM RELEASE
Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda in the highly anticipated film adaptation of Wicked has cemented her as one of the standout stars of 2024. From her ethereal vocals to her heartfelt acting, Grande’s performance has captivated audiences and sparked a cultural wave reminiscent of Broadway’s golden era.
The film’s release on Nov 22 unleashed a flurry of excitement, with Grande’s rendition of “Popular” turning into a TikTok phenomenon. The playful and catchy number inspired fans worldwide to embrace their inner theatre kids, with dance challenges and lip-sync videos taking over the platform.
Critics have lauded Grande’s comedic timing and nuanced emotional depth, particularly as she balances Glinda’s bubbly charm with poignant moments of vulnerability alongside co-star Cynthia Erivo’s Elphaba.
Adding to the buzz, the duo’s press tour has been a meme factory, with their off-screen chemistry bringing joy to fans and fueling endless social media commentary. From their hand-holding moments to inside jokes, Grande and Erivo have turned promotion into performance art, proving their connection is just as magical as the on-screen friendship they portray.
Grande’s journey to embody Glinda is a dream come true, tracing back to her childhood love for Wicked. Her passion shines through every note and scene, giving the beloved character a fresh, relatable spin. With her natural comedic flair and vocal prowess, Ariana Grande has made Glinda a defining moment of 2024 pop culture, leaving fans eagerly awaiting what’s next in the Wicked saga.
KHAIRUL AMING MEETS NEW ZEALAND PRIME MINISTER
In one of 2024’s most unexpected crossovers, Malaysian influencer and entrepreneur Khairul Aming teamed up with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on a sustainability campaign that went viral.
Their joint initiative promoting eco-friendly cooking methods not only highlighted cultural collaboration but also showcased Khairul's signature humour and relatable charm, making him an ideal ambassador for the cause.
The collaboration stemmed from Luxon’s three-day visit to Malaysia, where he met Khairul—fondly known as KA—to acknowledge the influencer’s impactful cooking series that has bridged diverse cuisines and cultures.
The meeting also marked a gesture of appreciation from New Zealand for Khairul’s culinary adventure in their country, which inspired a new series of mouthwatering dishes now beloved by fans.
In a heartwarming video shared online, Khairul introduced Luxon to iconic Malaysian staples like nasi lemak, roti jala, and teh tarik, giving the Prime Minister a taste of Malaysia’s vibrant food culture.
Their discussion went beyond the plate, exploring opportunities for tourism exchange, halal meat and dairy trade, nature preservation, and expanding Malaysian SMEs into New Zealand’s markets.
P DIDDY'S FALL FROM GRACE AND BEYONCE MEME
Sean "Diddy" Combs faced a stunning fall from grace in 2024, as a cascade of lawsuits and allegations rocked the hip-hop mogul’s career. The turmoil began in late 2023, when his ex-girlfriend, Cassie Ventura, filed a lawsuit accusing him of rape, sex trafficking, and domestic violence.
Though the case was swiftly settled, it opened the door to over a dozen more allegations spanning decades, including sexual assault, drugging, and harassment.
Federal investigations intensified in 2024, leading to raids on Diddy’s properties and a grand jury indictment accusing him of racketeering and trafficking.
By October, over 120 individuals, including minors, had come forward with accusations of abuse, cementing his role in one of the year’s most shocking scandals.
Two names tied to Diddy’s alleged crimes were Beyoncé and Jay-Z, thanks to their past association with the mogul and rumored attendance at his controversial parties.
Beyoncé’s towering influence in the music industry fueled playful conspiracy theories, with some speculating that her “untouchable” status might stem from these connections.
While entirely speculative, these narratives reflect the internet's fascination with the power dynamics of celebrity culture.
This sparked the "Thank You, Beyoncé" meme which became a viral sensation in 2024. Celebrity award speeches thanking Beyoncé, including those from Adele and Lizzo, fueled the joke, with fans exaggerating the idea that these tributes ward off bad luck.
In the spirit of the meme—thank you, Beyoncé, for inspiring another iconic moment in 2024.
As we look back on the year, moments like this show how humor and pop culture continue to shape our collective experience, making 2024 a year to remember.
