Google Reveals Most Searched Topics and People of 2024 in the UK and US
Google has unveiled its list of the most searched-for topics and people of 2024, offering a snapshot of what captivated and intrigued internet users across the UK and the US this year.
UK’s top searches: From euro 2024 to oasis tickets
As is tradition, Google released its year-end search trends, shedding light on what dominated search queries across the UK. In the realm of news, the final of Euro 2024 in Germany topped the charts, alongside the tragic death of One Direction’s Liam Payne. The disappearance of British teenager Jay Slater on the Spanish island of Tenerife also sparked significant online attention.
Other notable UK searches included "how to get Oasis tickets," a highly anticipated question after the band's rumoured reunion, and the controversial absence of Kate Middleton from royal duties, which led to a flurry of conspiracy theories. As a result, the Princess of Wales became the most searched-for person of the year, followed by Donald Trump, darts champion Luke Littler, Keir Starmer, and Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, whose victory in the 2024 Olympic Games sparked a social media storm.
Film and Music Trends in the UK: Tim Burton’s ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice’ and oasis reunion
In film, Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice Beetlejuice led the search charts, with other notable films such as It Ends With Us, Inside Out 2, Dune: Part Two, and Deadpool & Wolverine also generating significant online buzz.
Music searches in the UK were dominated by the possibility of an Oasis reunion, with the band’s name topping the list. Other musicians who saw their popularity surge in 2024 included Sabrina Carpenter, One Direction, Dave Grohl, and RAYE.
In sports, athletes Luke Littler, Lamine Yamal, and Simone Biles made headlines, emerging as some of the most searched names of the year.
US’s top searches: Presidential elections and the “Burnt toast theory”
Across the Atlantic, the US saw a surge in searches related to the race for the White House. As expected, the US presidential election was a dominant theme, with Donald Trump leading the charge in terms of search interest. Vice President Kamala Harris, JD Vance, and President Joe Biden followed closely behind in the rankings. Surprisingly, the Princess of Wales also made a strong appearance on the list, becoming one of the most Googled people of 2024 in the US as well.
Meanwhile, the entertainment world saw Katt Williams top the list of most searched performers, following his controversial appearance on Shannon Sharpe’s Club Shay Shay podcast. Other notable searches in the US included Jacob Elordi (Priscilla and Saltburn), Glen Powell (Twisters), and Jeremy Allen White (The Bear).
In music, Usher emerged as the most-searched musician in the US, propelled by his unforgettable Super Bowl halftime performance and a high-profile Vegas residency. Sean "Diddy" combs also dominated the search trends due to allegations of sexual misconduct. Kendrick Lamar and Drake’s ongoing rap feud further fuelled online debates.
Quirky search trends and generational curiosities
US internet users were also fascinated by the “burnt toast theory” in 2024, which went viral online. The theory suggests that minor, seemingly negative events can ultimately lead to positive outcomes — a whimsical metaphor for life’s unpredictable chain of events.
In line with generational trends, searches also spiked for explanations of the term “demure” and attempts to decode slang used by Gen Alpha. The most searched question in the US was “Why do kids say sigma?” – referring to a male hierarchy term used to describe someone successful and good-looking, though humbler than the stereotypical "Alpha" male.
Global trends reflecting broader curiosities
This year’s top searches in both the UK and the US highlight not only the major political, cultural, and sporting events that captured attention but also the quirky, lighter topics that generated curiosity. From the race for political power to the resurgence of classic music acts, 2024’s search trends offer a glimpse into the concerns, interests, and passions of internet users across two of the world’s largest digital landscapes.
As for next year, it remains to be seen which new events and personalities will take centre stage in search queries — but one thing is certain: Google’s year-end reveal will continue to provide a fascinating snapshot of what has shaped public interest in 2025.
