Every year, there’s always a new trend or meme floating around the internet. Some may say I spend too much time on my phone, but others understand the time it takes to be up to date on all pop-culture references. As the year comes to an end, here are my favorite eight pop-culture moments.
#1: Wicked Press Tour
Everyone has seen the controversy surrounding Wicked as it continues to promote the second installment of the franchise. From the finger-holding to Cynthia protecting Ariana, this press tour has drawn a lot of attention on social media. At first, fans were meme-ing the powerful connection between the lead actresses. Still, now, fans seem to be growing worried as discussions begin speculating on a potential trauma bond or an underlying reason for the strong connection. The tour has nonetheless become a significant pop-culture moment, and memes from the cast pop out daily.
#2: The Jean Ad War
Sydney Sweeney was under hot water this year with her American Eagle ad. The ad was accused of promoting eugenics, with white, blonde, blue-eyed Sydney Sweeney telling viewers, “I have good jeans.” Following this controversial ad, Gap released a jean ad featuring KATSEYE and a cover of Milkshake. Gap was praised for its subtle clap back and diverse ad. The dance from the ad quickly became a trend on TikTok, and many deemed it the superior ad. Personally, I loved the KATSEYE ad, and the sound and dance were very addictive for a while.
#3: Love Island Train-wreck
I had never watched Love Island the way I watched this last season. The social media presence and the cliques that formed following the Summer 2025 season were insane. The season prior didn’t see the fallout we saw in 2025. The entire cast seemed to disperse, friends betraying friends; the whole cast seemed to be there only for the possible fame, not the love fans were promised. Each member of the cast seemed to have their own groups of devoted haters and supporters, ready to go to war with the opposing castmate and their fans. Our surviving couples fell apart within weeks of the show ending, leaving fans disheartened and annoyed. The entire season was a train wreck from start to finish, so it is no surprise how many quality memes emerged from this season.
#4: Astronaut Celebrities
Katy Perry in space was something I never thought I would see, but luckily, I was alive in April of 2025. I don’t know whose idea this was, nor do I want to know how much money went into this trip. The trip was supposed to be very representative and symbolic, but for the most part, the internet was baffled by the decision. The girlboss moment didn’t hit the mark they wanted, but the memes of Katy Perry, free-floating, holding a flower, will haunt my memory.
#5: Benson Boone-ification
Shoutout to The Upstairs Neighbors for keeping Benson Boone’s image alive. He’s just such a flippy guy, just throwing himself around the stage with no concern for his well-being. He is not only a meme for his love of acrobatics but also for his music. Benson Boone has released some really hard-hitting songs and then followed them up with “Mystical Magical” [moonbeam ice cream], and expected to be taken seriously. Not only that, but the Crumbl Cookie that I saw someone resin-seal was insane. All around, Benson Boone is a staple of 2025 life.
#6: Labubu
If you bought a Labubu, you should no longer be allowed access to the internet. The worst thing to come out of 2025 was those ugly-looking dolls. I am so sorry if you like Labubus. Spending $50 or more on a surprise demon keychain is diabolical. Not only that, but the people putting designers on them were so crazy. Then, once the phase passed, Labubu was resurrected as a vocal stim for people to yell at their roommates. While saying Labubu may be fun, in the long run, I will be happy if I never see these again. It was fun while it lasted.
#7: New Album Central: The Music Flops and Bops
I swear, everyone released an album this year. Taylor Swift’s release was one I did avoid, though I have heard mixed reviews. From what I’ve heard, I will stick with Fearless. Many viewers say this is her worst album yet, stating that bland people liked it. Sabrina Carpenter released an album of bops, feeding her world tour’s success. Sabrina continues to be scandalously humorous throughout her tour, with her Juno pose being a crowd favorite. From the Weeknd to Miley Cyrus, everyone decided that 2025 was the year for music. Right now, Olivia Dean’s album is gaining traction through social media. If you wanted new music, this year was your year.
#8: Beyonce’s Internet
I really want to know when and where this was derived from. As we all know, Beyonce is Queen B, and with Cowboy Carter sweeping the Grammys, Beyonce reclaimed her power this year. Pop-culture enthusiasts are quick to remind users to be careful of what they say on “Beyonce’s internet,” citing her incredible power and devoted fan base, which feeds the humor behind the threat. Next time you think about commenting something rude or out of line, please remember that you are on Beyonce’s internet and act accordingly.
There are so many more outrageous and hilarious pop-culture moments that contribute to the chaotic year of 2025. These are just some of the most memorable moments that made me laugh. Don’t forget to look back and remember your best moments as we welcome in a new year.