As 2024 finally draws to a dramatic close, it’s time to take a stroll down memory lane and reminisce about the moments that kept us glued to our little screens and endlessly refreshing our feeds. From viral sensations to cultural upheavals, these are five pop culture moments that defined our year — and, let’s be honest, will probably haunt us well into 2025.
Mu Deng
Forget influencers and leaders, the biggest star of 2024 was pint-sized, water-loving diva Mu Deng. This baby hippo captured the heart (and probably the mind) of its guardian with its ferocious cuteness and antics, such as biting its keeper’s knee despite having no teeth. Mu Deng became such a sensation that Saturday Night Live dedicated an entire segment to her, cementing her status as the year’s undisputed breakout icon. Other animals like Ava the golden tiger and Pesta the chubby penguin tried to dethrone her, but Mu Deng reigned flawlessly because, let’s face it, she knew she was a girl.
“Very modestly, very carefully”
What started as a playful catchphrase by TikTok creator Jules LeBron quickly became the catchphrase of the year. From captions to memes, “very modestly, very carefully” swept the Internet like wildfire. At first it was funny and relatable. But when the overuse started, the phrase became as insufferable as a fake motivational poster. By mid-year, saying it was anything but careful, so much so that we’ll be happy to put it behind us in 2024.
Summer’s brother
No one expected Charli XCX to take over the frat summer with her chaotic album brat; the season’s anthem and its lime green was the color of the year, appearing on everything from manicures to Kamala Harris’ merchandise campaign (because why not?).
Doppelgangers everywhere
2024 was the year everyone discovered the famous twin—or at least they thought they did. Lookalike contests for Timothée Chalamet, Zayn Malik, Dev Patel and Paul Mezcal have taken the internet by storm, sparking endless debate over who spotted the lookalike. Some contests were cute; others were just plain sloppy (looking at you Luigi Mangione fans). Meanwhile, Delhi’s attempt to hold its own similar events for Bollywood stars like Abhay Deol failed, proving that not all lookalikes are created equal.
The Luigi Mangione phenomenon
Who knew a true crime could lead to an internet thirst trap? Luigi Mangione became a viral anti-hero after being named the prime suspect in the death of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Johnson. Social media exploded with memes, thirst posts and deep dives into Mangione’s life. Although the case is far from over, his online fandom is a savage reminder of how quickly the internet can turn a murder suspect into a cult figure. Craving fans? Oh, they’re not going anywhere.
2024 may not have been a year of subtlety, but it did bring some unforgettable pop culture moments that made us laugh, cringe, and question everything. Come on, 2025!
