2024 Mid-Year Review: Viral Moments, Movies, Memes, and More
Six months into 2024, we recap the highlights that have captured our attention and amazement.
From viral sensations that took the internet by storm to groundbreaking scientific discoveries, this year has been a whirlwind of memorable moments and captivating narratives:
Viral Moments:
The internet exploded with countless viral moments that ignited laughter, conversation, and cultural shifts. The #DollyPartonChallenge, where users recreated iconic images using household items, brought smiles to faces worldwide.
Movies:
2024 witnessed the release of cinematic masterpieces that captivated audiences. “Eternals” delved into the origins of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, while “Top Gun: Maverick” soared to the top of box office charts.
Memes:
Memes became a ubiquitous form of online expression, with “The Slap” from the Oscars ceremony and the “Bernie Sanders Mittens” meme dominating social media.
Dating Trends:
The dating scene continued to evolve, with the rise of “breadcrumbing” and the growing popularity of dating apps that cater to specific niches.
Hyped Tech:
Technological advancements continued to make headlines. ChatGPT, a generative artificial intelligence, sparked excitement and debate, while foldable smartphones became more mainstream.
Scientific Discoveries:
Science made significant leaps, with breakthroughs such as the development of a new type of cancer treatment and the discovery of water on Mars.
Podcast Picks for the Second Half of 2024:
As the year progresses, we recommend these thought-provoking and captivating podcasts for your listening pleasure:
- Again With This: Join hosts Tara Ariano and Sarah D. Bunting as they revisit iconic television shows, offering a nostalgic and humorous perspective.
- The Secrets We Keep: Explore the taboo topics of abortion, money, and sexuality through the stories of individuals who share their deepest secrets.
- Three: Delve into the chilling details surrounding the 2012 murder of Skylar Neese, as investigative journalists Justine Harman and Holly Millea uncover the sinister motive behind her best friends’ actions.
- Radio Rental: Immerse yourself in eerie and macabre tales narrated by Terry Carnation, the owner of a video rental store filled with strange and unforgettable stories.
- How to Know What’s Real: Join The Atlantic’s Andrea Valdez and Megan Garber as they explore the complexities of disinformation, critical thinking, and the role of emotions in shaping our beliefs.
- Hidden Brain: With host Shankar Vedantam, gain insights into the hidden dynamics of human behavior, examining topics like loneliness, resilience, and the challenges of political discourse.
- Long Shadow: In Guns We Trust: Trace the history of the Second Amendment, the NRA, and the impact of mass shootings in the United States.
- Slow Burn: Gays Against Briggs: Discover the story of the Briggs Initiative, the first-ever referendum on gay rights, and its profound impact on the LGBTQ community.
- Second Sunday: Explore the intersection of queer identity and the Black church, discussing the challenges and triumphs of individuals navigating these complex spaces.
- Embedded: Supermajority: Follow three conservative mothers in Tennessee as they confront the state legislature after a tragic school shooting, revealing the complexities of politics and the power of activism.
As we continue through 2024, let’s anticipate more memorable moments, thought-provoking ideas, and the continued evolution of the cultural landscape.
