The year 2024 has been marked by a whirlwind of celebrity controversies, capturing the public's attention and sparking debates across social media.
But beyond the most talked-about scandals involving some of the industry's most polarizing figures, numerous viral celebrity moments have also made headlines and generated buzz.
From Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s unforgettable kiss to Celine Dion's triumphant return after her health hiatus, the entertainment world was rich with memorable moments in the past 12 months of 2024.
So, here are the 10 most viral celebrity moments of the year.
1. Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Super Bowl Kiss
The year 2024 was a big one for Taylor Swift, marked by the conclusion of her sold-out Eras world tour and her blossoming romance with NFL star Travis Kelce. It may well have been her best year yet.
The couple consistently acknowledges each other, whether on stage during concerts or on the football field. Notably, Kelce recently hosted a party for Swift to celebrate the end of her tour, showcasing their support for one another.
However, one viral moment that fans will never forget is the passionate kiss they shared at the Super Bowl after the Kansas City Chiefs' victory.
This moment captured the hearts of fans worldwide and made them a trending topic on social media, solidifying their status as the new power couple in pop culture.
2. Charli XCX’s Brat Summer Album
Charli XCX transformed the music scene with the release of her sixth studio album, Brat Summer, in June 2024.
Featuring eye-catching lime-green cover art and a party-girl aesthetic, the album quickly became a sensation on social media.
Its vibrant “Brat green” backdrop was even adopted by Kamala Harris’ campaign with the song “360” gaining traction on TikTok after Charli herself expressed her support.
Fans eagerly joined the excitement, creating the viral “Apple” dance on TikTok. From her surprise performance in Times Square to Brat being named one of the words of the year by Scientific American, it’s clear why Brat Summer has become a cultural phenomenon.
3. Celine Dion’s Emotional Comeback
Céline Dion made a triumphant return to the live stage when she performed at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics in July.
This highly anticipated performance followed the release of her documentary I Am, which detailed her battle with Stiff Person Syndrome.
Singing “L’Hymne À L’Amour” from the balcony of the Eiffel Tower amid a rain-soaked backdrop, Dion delivered an emotional rendition that resonated deeply with audiences worldwide.
Her performance not only moved fans but also marked a significant milestone in her illustrious career. Many even hailed it as a “momentous event” and a “powerful testament to her enduring spirit and resilience.”
4. Moo Deng the Pygmy Hippo
Moo Deng may not be a celebrity, but she has certainly become a star in her own right. The birth of this pygmy hippo at a zoo in Thailand captured the hearts of internet users, drawing large crowds to the Khao Kheow Open Zoo.
Her adorable antics quickly went viral, leading to an outpouring of affection and memes that celebrated her irresistible cuteness, making her an unlikely social media sensation.
Some celebrities have even expressed their desire to meet Moo Deng one day, further highlighting her widespread appeal.
5. Sabrina Carpenter’s Raunchy MTV VMA Performance
Sabrina Carpenter surprised everyone with her bold performance at the MTV VMAs in September 2024.
In addition to her hits “Please Please Please” and “Espresso,” she delivered an unforgettable rendition of “Taste,” flying down to the main stage on a space-themed set.
During her performance, she serenaded an astronaut and a blue alien, creating a visually stunning spectacle. In a surprising twist, Carpenter shared a make-out session with the alien, which not only showcased her artistic flair but also sparked discussions about celebrity personas and relationships.
This daring move added an unexpected layer to her performance and left audiences buzzing. Carpenter also paid homage to iconic performances by Britney Spears and Madonna, further elevating the excitement of her appearance and generating significant buzz on social media.
6. Simone Biles’ Olympic Return
After four years, Simone Biles made a triumphant return to the Olympics in 2024 with an impressive performance in Paris.
Following her withdrawal from the 2020 Tokyo Olympics due to mental health struggles, including a mental block known as the “twisties,” she took time off to focus on her well-being with the support of her teammates and a therapist.
Biles returned with a "redemption tour" mindset, topping the all-around qualifying standings with a score of 59.566. She ended up winning three gold and one silver medals, marking a significant comeback for the athlete.
As expected, her performance was celebrated widely, making it one of the most talked-about moments of the Games.
7. Jeremy Allen White’s Calvin Klein Campaign
Jeremy Allen White had everyone talking with his striking Calvin Klein campaign, where he posed in just his underwear against the iconic New York City skyline. The photos not only showcased his impressive physique but also elevated his status from a talented actor to a fashion icon in Hollywood.
The campaign quickly gained attention on social media, reminiscent of the frenzy surrounding his previous campaign in January, where he was photographed shirtless on New York City rooftops.
This new set of images not only highlighted his physical appeal but also reinforced his growing influence in the fashion world.
White continues to break the internet, proving that he can seamlessly blend his acting career with a burgeoning presence in fashion.
8. Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s “Holding Space” Meme
Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo delivered some of the most emotional moments during the Wicked press tour.
One standout interview with Out sparked the viral meme "holding space" when an interviewer mentioned how people were taking the lyrics of "Defying Gravity" to heart and "holding space" for them.
This particular interview gained significant traction on X during the movie's opening weekend, with Grande later calling it “the meme of the year” in another interview with Variety.
Throughout the press tour, Grande and Erivo showcased their deep connection and emotional investment in the project, often sharing heartfelt moments that resonated with fans.
Their genuine camaraderie and the powerful themes of Wicked contributed to a memorable promotional experience, making it one of the most talked-about events in recent entertainment history.
9. Ryan Gosling’s “I’m Just Ken” Performance at the Oscars
Ryan Gosling broke the internet with his electrifying performance of “I’m Just Ken” from Barbie at the Oscars.
When the live performance was announced, speculation ran wild about how it would unfold, how the public would react, and how iconic it would be. During and after the show, audiences unanimously agreed that Gosling's performance was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
His heartfelt rendition showcased not only his musical talent but also became the highlight of the awards season. It was even met with a standing ovation in the theater—and likely at home as well—solidifying its status as a cultural moment.
10. Zendaya’s Iconic Mugler Fembot Suit
The year 2024 was a significant one for Zendaya, thanks to her iconic red-carpet moments. From channeling Cher at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in October to her show-stopping ensembles at the Met Gala, she ate and left no crumbles.
However, her standout moment came during the Dune: Part Two press tour when she donned the legendary Mugler Fembot suit.
Originally worn by German supermodel Nadja Auermann in Thierry Mugler’s Autumn/Winter 1995 collection, the Fembot suit remains a legendary piece in fashion history.
Zendaya effortlessly sent the internet into a frenzy with this bold choice, prompting excitement from both fans and fashion critics alike.