A Year in Review: The Absurdity of 2025 in Pop Culture

The year 2025 has been characterized by a blend of absurdity and apathy, as highlighted by various cultural events and trends. Dictionary.com’s word of the year, “6-7,” reflects a sense of irony and disillusionment prevalent throughout the year. The year began with significant events, including the Los Angeles wildfires and the second presidential inauguration of Donald Trump, which set a tone of resignation among the public.

The Guardian

Despite the grim backdrop, 2025 saw the emergence of quirky cultural phenomena. The Labubu dolls, described as “little furry gremlin dolls,” became a viral sensation, hoarded by consumers reminiscent of past frenzies. Sydney Sweeney's controversial advertisement for American Eagle jeans sparked outrage, although many viewed it as a trivial matter. Additionally, a scandal involving tech CEO Andy Byron and his head of HR, Kristin Cabot, drew significant media attention, culminating in threats against Cabot following their appearance on a kiss cam at a Coldplay concert.

The Guardian

A notable criminal event occurred when thieves stole $102 million worth of jewels from the Louvre in under seven minutes, marking one of the most audacious heists of the year. This incident underscored the ongoing issues of crime and security in major cultural institutions.

The Guardian

The engagement of pop star Taylor Swift to NFL player Travis Kelce became a focal point of media coverage, perceived by some as a calculated move to promote Kelce's podcast and Swift's upcoming album. This event exemplified the intertwining of personal relationships and commercial interests in contemporary celebrity culture.

The Guardian

Critics have pointed out the pervasive sense of apathy and resignation that characterized public reactions to these events. The year was marked by a collective shrug in response to significant developments, suggesting a broader cultural malaise. The commentary reflects a yearning for more meaningful engagement with the world, contrasting sharply with the frivolity of certain pop culture moments.

The Guardian

While there were no formal responses from major institutions regarding the year's events, the general sentiment among commentators suggests a desire for a more engaged and proactive public discourse. The juxtaposition of serious issues with trivial pop culture phenomena has led to calls for a reevaluation of societal priorities.

The Guardian

• “Apathy” would have been a better choice for word of the year, considering how we’ve collectively shrugged at every dispiriting development of the last 12 months.” — Anonymous Commentator

The Guardian

• “It took them less than seven minutes to swipe the treasures, which is the fastest anyone has made that amount of money outside of a crypto casino.” — Anonymous Commentator

The Guardian

• “I’d let American Eagle sponsor my wedding if they asked.” — Anonymous Commentator

The Guardian

As 2025 draws to a close, the anticipation for 2026 looms large, with many hoping for a shift in cultural engagement and a break from the cycle of apathy. The events of the past year serve as a reminder of the absurdity of modern life, prompting reflections on what lies ahead.

The Guardian