Between the movies, music, news and pop culture happenings this year, there are so many highlights to look back on. Without Taylor Swift’s girl squad, Justin Bieber’s comeback, Adele’s “Hello” or Miley’s outrageous fashion choices, would it really be 2015? Here are fifteen defining moments that made 2015 unforgettable.
15. Katy Perry dominated the Super Bowl XLIX halftime show
Though this sports event highlighted the win of the New England Patriots versus the Seattle Seahawks, all eyes were on Katy Perry. Viewers everywhere tuned in for the impressive outfit swaps, Missy Elliot’s surprise appearance, fireworks and most importantly, Left Shark. She even got a tattoo of “XLIX” on her inner finger to commemorate the experience.
14. Final episode of “Parks and Recreation” airs
Quite possibly the hardest television series goodbye since “Friends” ended in 2004. After seven seasons of quality, heartfelt comedy, there is definitely something missing. The episodes are always a solid re-watch, and even years from now, the “treat yo self” memes will never get old.
13. The dress
You know exactly what I’m talking about: the white and gold (or is it black and blue?) dress that had everyone questioning what they were seeing. Aka “The Dressgate” debate went viral, and for a while there it was the only thing on our Facebook feeds. According to Wikipedia, “more than 10 million tweets mentioned the dress!”
12. Princess Charlotte’s birth announcement
Prince William and the Duchess, Kate announce the birth of their second adorable child, Princess Charlotte. The little princess of Cambridge was born in St. Mary’s Hospital in London. Her full name, Charlotte Elizabeth Diana, is such a delightful tribute to Princess Diana.
11. Taylor Swift drops music video for “Bad Blood”
After social media exploded with excitement as Taylor posted stills of the cast, including Ellie Goulding, Cara Delevingne, Ellen Pompeo, Jessica Alba and Cindy Crawford. This highly anticipated music video premiered at the Billboard Music Awards and blew everyone away. The only thing that could have made it better would be if her darling cats Meredith and Olivia made an appearance!
10. David Lettermen’s final taping of “The Late Show”
After thirty-three years of late-night television, it was so sad to see this one come to an end. The final farewell episode included a top ten list of guests including Bill Murray, Tina Fey and Peyton Manning. We’ll always remember his genuine personality on air and extremely clever one-liners.
9. Debut of Caitlyn Jenner
Bruce Jenner, gold-medal Olympian, announced her transition as Caitlyn and wowed everyone on none other than Vanity Fair Magazine’s July issue. Iconic photographer Annie Leibovitz shot captivating photo’s of Jenner in her home in Malibu and had everyone wanting to know more. Following this, Caitlyn won Glamour’s “Woman of the Year” award along with much criticism and controversy.
8. Same-sex marriage legalized
The U.S supreme court ruled that same-sex couples everywhere are finally allowed to fulfill their dreams of being able to marry. This historic milestone was victorious and emotion-filled for same-sex marriage activists, couples and families alike who can now experience the power of equality. #LoveWins
7. Kanye’s VMA speech
“Imma let you finish but,” maybe acceptance speeches aren’t Kanye’s thing. You never know what to expect on TV award shows, but especially not a Kanye West presidential campaign. The VMA Vanguard speech was a little bizarre and resulted in a number of confused tweets with #Kanye2020. Even more unexpected was that Taylor Swift presented him with the award. You can always count on the VMA’s to be memorable.
6. The Emoji Update
iOS 9.1: that means the cute champagne bottle, eye roll and heart exclamation point that you now fill your texts with, or even you know, the middle finger addition for your not so favorite contacts. Who else wonders what emojis could be added in 2016?
5. Lady Gaga releases music video, “Till it Happens to You”
This music video surrounds the impacts of assault and rape on college campuses everywhere. She uses her voice for an issue that’s very real and prevalent. Her goal was to help viewers and survivors of assault feel less alone.
4. Glenn’s not dead
Screams from “Walking Dead” fans came from everywhere Sunday night when a fan favorite character, Glenn, supposedly died. That all changed with a returning episode depicting Glenn climbing out from underneath a dumpster nearly unscathed.
3. Adele says “Hello” to topping major music charts
Brilliant lyrics combined with her iconic soulful sound, Adele has always given us the feels. Her latest single, “Hello” is no exception. Who didn’t feel a few tears coming on upon hearing the return of her glorious voice. Can we also talk about her live SNL performance?! This is her year. After a nearly four-year break for this British best seller, Adele is finally back and better than ever.
2. “The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2”
Such a respectable end to a spectacular film series, slow claps for authenticity all around. The final book wasn’t the best of the three, but the movie was fantastic. Though this film has moments that will make you jump, cringe, and ugly cry the entire time, everyone knows the “Hunger Games” movies are not to be missed!
1. Iowa Hawkeye Football
The only way to finish off the highlights of 2015 is with the Iowa Hawkeyes’ outstanding Football season. The Hawkeyes not only stand 12-1 but brought home the Floyd of Rosedale and will play at the Rose Bowl in January. You know what they say: it really is great to be a Hawkeye.
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