Both Bollywood and Hollywood have delivered a year rich in cinematic spectacles, cultural discourse, and star-studded celebrations, leaving fans enthralled and critics debating. Let’s dive into the most significant viral stories that shaped this remarkable year.    

1. Hollywood's "Joker: The Last Laugh" Faces Backlash

When the sequel to the critically acclaimed Joker was announced, expectations soared. The original film, hailed for its gritty portrayal of mental health and societal decay, had set an almost unattainable benchmark. However, Joker: The Last Laugh struggled to resonate with audiences. Critics described it as a visually stunning but emotionally hollow follow-up that lacked the profound psychological depth and character nuance of its predecessor. Social media was rife with memes and debates, with fans expressing disappointment over the narrative's shift towards a more commercial and action-heavy approach. Despite its underwhelming box office performance, the film ignited discussions about the challenges of sequel storytelling.  

2.  The Success of "Singham Again" and "Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3"

Bollywood’s box office saw a resurgence with two major hits this year: Singham Again and Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. Ajay Devgn reprised his role as the fearless Bajirao Singham in Rohit Shetty’s action-packed franchise, which combined patriotic fervor with high-octane drama to become a massive crowd-puller. Meanwhile, Kartik Aaryan's return as the quirky ghostbuster in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3 delivered chills and laughs, proving that the horror-comedy genre is here to stay. These films not only reinforced the stars' bankability but also highlighted the enduring appeal of franchise cinema in India. Fans celebrated the films with viral memes and fan art, cementing their status as cultural phenomena.    

3. "Gladiator 2" Fails to Impress

Ridley Scott’s long-awaited sequel to the iconic Gladiator came with immense expectations, boasting a star-studded cast and high-budget visuals. Yet, the film's over-reliance on CGI and a lackluster script left audiences unimpressed. Fans of the original lamented the absence of the emotional depth and historical intrigue that made the 2000 epic a classic. Social media platforms buzzed with reactions, as many compared Gladiator 2 to other recent sequels that failed to live up to their legacies. While the film achieved modest box office success due to its initial hype, it quickly became a cautionary tale about how not to revisit a beloved franchise.    

4. Beyoncé Crowned Greatest Pop Star of the 21st Century

In a historic moment, Beyoncé was crowned the "Greatest Pop Star of the 21st Century," an honor that sparked jubilant celebrations among her fans, the Beyhive. The announcement, made during a high-profile music industry event, recognized her unparalleled contributions to music, culture, and activism. However, Taylor Swift’s passionate fanbase stirred a spirited debate online, questioning the metrics behind the decision. Taylor Swift’s gracious response, in which she congratulated Beyoncé while hinting at her own personal milestones, shifted the narrative back to positivity. The ensuing discussions highlighted the influence of both artists and the dynamic nature of pop culture in shaping global trends.

5. Jared Leto’s Lost Oscar Resurfaces In one of the most heartwarming stories of the year, Jared Leto’s long-lost Oscar for Dallas Buyers Club finally resurfaced. The statuette, which had been missing for years under mysterious circumstances, was found in a storage facility during a routine inventory check. The peculiar discovery was accompanied by a series of amusing anecdotes, as fans and industry insiders speculated about how the award had gone astray. Leto’s emotional reaction and quirky retelling of the events during a talk show appearance made headlines, turning this quirky tale into a viral sensation.  

6.  Ariana Grande’s "Wicked" Promotion

Ariana Grande’s portrayal of Glinda the Good Witch in the much-anticipated Wicked adaptation became one of the year’s most talked-about performances. During a live promotional event, Drew Barrymore presented Ariana with the original Glinda wand, a gesture that moved the pop star to tears. Fans flooded social media with heartfelt messages and tributes, amplifying the film’s buzz. The promotional tour for Wicked became a masterclass in fan engagement, with sneak peeks and behind-the-scenes clips captivating audiences. The anticipation for this adaptation, coupled with Ariana’s emotional connection to the role, made it a standout event in Hollywood.  

7. Raj Kapoor’s 100th Birth Anniversary Celebrations Bollywood celebrated the centenary of Raj Kapoor, one of its most iconic filmmakers, with grandeur and reverence. The Kapoor family, led by Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, organized a star-studded event that brought together the who’s who of the industry. Tributes poured in from around the globe, as fans revisited Raj Kapoor’s timeless classics like Awara and Shree 420. The event also featured archival footage, special performances, and heartfelt speeches that celebrated his visionary contributions to Indian cinema. This milestone not only honored Kapoor’s legacy but also served as a poignant reminder of Bollywood’s rich cultural heritage.  

8. The World Mourns Tabla Maestro Zakir Hussain

The sudden demise of Zakir Hussain, the legendary tabla virtuoso, sent shockwaves across the globe. Revered for his unparalleled contribution to Indian classical music and fusion genres, Hussain's passing marked the end of an era. Tributes poured in from artists, political leaders, and fans worldwide, celebrating his extraordinary talent and legacy. Social media platforms were inundated with heartfelt messages, video clips of his iconic performances, and emotional recollections from those who had the privilege of working with him. The global music community came together to honor the maestro, whose rhythms transcended borders and touched millions.          

A Year That Defined Global Entertainment As 2024 comes to a close, the year has reinforced the global influence of Bollywood and Hollywood. From memorable films and viral moments to strides in representation and cultural milestones, the entertainment world has once again captured the imagination of audiences worldwide. With 2025 on the horizon, fans eagerly anticipate more groundbreaking stories, technological innovations, and collaborations that will redefine the industry once again.