What We Watched, Streamed, and Talked About All Year

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s safe to say that this year was packed with pop culture moments that not only entertained us but also shaped the trends and conversations that kept us hooked. For more on the unforgettable cultural milestones that shaped 2024, check out ExpressVPN’s full report on pop culture moments here.

From viral TikTok challenges to groundbreaking movie premieres, this year’s pop culture landscape had something for everyone. So let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit the unforgettable moments that defined 2024.

1. The “Brat Summer” Phenomenon: From TikTok to a Lifestyle Movement

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok this year, you’ve likely seen the Brat Summer trend explode across your feed. What started as a playful way to channel your inner teen drama character quickly turned into a full-fledged cultural movement. Think neon fashion, gossip-filled group chats, and that effortlessly cool vibe you can’t help but envy.

The Brat Summer trend wasn’t just about fashion—it was a lifestyle. It spoke to a generation that values self-expression, humor, and unapologetic confidence. You could see it everywhere: from influencer collabs to high-school-inspired looks flooding Instagram, to iconic moments at music festivals that screamed “Brat Summer” energy. This trend wasn’t just a seasonal phase; it’s still going strong as we enter autumn, proving its impact on how we define style and attitude in 2024.

2. The Battle of the Blockbusters: "Wicked" vs. "Gladiator II"

When two of the most highly anticipated movies of the year dropped on the same day, the internet had thoughts. “Wicked” and “Gladiator II” both premiered in August, sparking a full-on showdown between musical theater fans and action movie lovers. TikTok exploded with debates over which movie was going to dominate, with fans comparing everything from costumes to plot lines. While some were obsessing over the iconic “Defying Gravity” number from Wicked, others were in awe of the gladiatorial combat and heart-pumping action in Gladiator II.

This cultural clash didn’t just stop with the premiere dates—both films sparked trending discussions on social media, with users sharing their own takes on which movie reigns supreme and why. The result? A full-fledged viral debate that kept both films in the spotlight for months.

3. TikTok Trends: The Man in Finance & Moo Deng’s Pink Hippo

You can always count on TikTok to bring something quirky and unforgettable into the mix, and this year was no exception. Who could forget the Man in Finance jingle that took over your For You page? This catchy, slightly chaotic tune became the backdrop for everything from memes to life hacks, quickly becoming a viral sensation that had us humming all year long.

And then there’s Moo Deng, the adorable pink hippo that had everyone rushing to buy plush toys and obsessing over the character’s viral video clips. Moo Deng wasn’t just a cute face—it became a symbol of the joy and absurdity that makes the internet such a fun place. We watched Moo Deng’s rise from viral video star to full-blown cultural icon, reminding us that sometimes, the simplest things are what bring us the most happiness.

4. Streaming Hits: "The Boys" & Other Must-Watch Shows

If you haven’t caught up on The Boys yet, what are you even doing? This show continued to deliver shocking twists, unforgettable moments, and gritty commentary on celebrity culture that had us all glued to our screens. The Boys remained one of the most-watched shows in 2024, not just for its raw content but for its ability to push boundaries and get people talking about issues that matter.

But it wasn’t just about The Boys. There was a whole wave of binge-worthy content this year that had us all streaming non-stop. From Netflix’s surprise hit drama series to HBO’s latest must-watch crime thriller, we’ve spent 2024 obsessing over what happens next. Streaming became more than just entertainment; it was a way to connect with our friends, share theories, and keep up with the latest pop culture moments together.

5. Music Moments: Charli XCX’s "Brat Summer" & More

The soundtrack to 2024 was filled with bangers and beats that shaped the cultural conversation. Charli XCX’s Brat Summer album was the defining musical release of the year, influencing everything from fashion to dance trends. The album captured that free-spirited, no-holds-barred energy that perfectly matched the vibes of the Brat Summer movement. Charli’s blend of hyper-pop, catchy hooks, and cheeky lyrics quickly became the anthem of a generation ready to embrace their wild side.

Beyond Charli, the music scene was filled with collaborations, viral challenges, and album releases that had us all hitting repeat. From indie hits to pop chart-toppers, 2024 had no shortage of soundtracks for every moment, and we couldn’t get enough of it.

6. Rachael “Raygun” Gunn’s Breakdancing Moment at the Olympics

In August, the Paris Olympics became the backdrop for an unforgettable moment when Rachael “Raygun” Gunn delivered a breakdancing routine that had the world talking. This unexpected Olympic sport added an element of surprise and excitement, with viewers cheering her on as she fused athleticism with artistry in a way that no one saw coming. Raygun’s performance became a viral sensation, with millions of viewers sharing the clip and debating the role of breakdancing in future Olympic Games.

It wasn’t just a moment in sports; it became a symbol of how pop culture continues to break boundaries and evolve, making its way into every corner of the entertainment world.

Wrapping Up 2024: A Year to Remember

As we close the book on 2024, one thing is clear: this year has been a ride. From internet trends to blockbuster films, music, and everything in between, the moments that defined this year will continue to influence pop culture in the years to come. Whether you were living for Brat Summer, battling it out between movie premieres, or laughing over viral TikToks, 2024 has kept us entertained, engaged, and ready for what comes next. Here’s to another year of unforgettable moments!