2024's Pop Culture Roundup: The Highlights So Far and What's Next

As we reach the midpoint of 2024, it's an ideal moment to reflect on the standout books, TV shows, music, and films that have captivated us, as well as to anticipate the forthcoming releases and events set to enliven the rest of the year.

LOOKING BACK

MUSIC: Fabiana Palladino's self-titled debut album has proven to be a gem in the music industry, impressing listeners with its blend of sophisticated pop, ‘80s and ‘90s vibes, and inventive production.

MOMENT: Ryan Gosling's Oscar performance from Barbie captivated the audience, leading to a memorable standing ovation for the multi-talented actor.

TV: Such Brave Girls on Stan has been hailed as potentially the best comedy series of the year, balancing humor with serious themes artfully.

LIVE: Hugo Weaving's performance in The President at the Sydney Theatre Company left audiences in awe, particularly with its audacious final scene.

BOOK: Salman Rushdie's heart-wrenching memoir Knife explores his experience and recovery post a violent attack, offering a compelling narrative of resilience.

MOMENT: The feud between Kendrick Lamar and Drake became the talk of the year, with Kendrick emerging with an infectious hit that captivated both fans and casual listeners alike.

FILM: American Fiction received critical acclaim and garnered five Oscar nods for its sharp satire of the literary scene, despite being released exclusively on Prime Video.

LIVE: Taylor Swift's innovative Eras Tour changed the concert game with interactive and immersive experiences, influencing the live performances of artists across the board.

FILM: Challengers became an unexpected hit, blending high-stakes tennis drama with a queer-coded narrative, all under Luca Guadagnino's distinctive direction.

MUSIC: Beyoncé's Cowboy Carter redefined country music with a diverse fusion of African American musical styles, solidifying her status as a trailblazing artist.

TV: Jerrod Carmichael's reality show on Binge pushed the boundaries of honesty on television, as he tackled personal and sensitive topics head-on.

BOOK: Martyr! by Kaveh Akbar is one of the most intriguing debut novels of the year, delving into themes of addiction, grief, and family with unexpected twists.

LOOKING FORWARD

TV: The Bear on Disney will continue to provide gripping moments and laughs in its second half of the season.

LIVE: Ali Wong is set to tour Australia, bringing her incisive comedy to fans eager for new material after her celebrated Netflix specials.

FILM: Francis Ford Coppola's long-awaited Megalopolis is set to release, promising a unique cinematic vision of a utopian New York City.

BOOK: Sally Rooney is poised to return with Intermezzo, a novel that promises to captivate readers with its examination of complex relationships.

MOMENT: The fate of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck's relationship remains uncertain, posing the potential end of 'Bennifer.'

MUSIC: Only One Mode by the band Speed is anticipated to be a pinnacle release in hardcore music.

TV: A reboot of Time Bandits on Apple TV+ brings together a stellar creative team for a fresh take on the classic adventure.

BOOK: Michelle de Kretser's novel Theory & Practice is expected to enchant readers with the author’s signature storytelling prowess.

FILM: Josh Hartnett is poised to captivate audiences with his lead role in the thriller Trap, signaling a career resurgence for the actor.

LIVE: The Australian Ballet's premiere of Oscar will bring the extraordinary life of Oscar Wilde to the stage through dance.

MUSIC: Camila Cabello is set to surprise fans with her album C, XOXO, which signals a bold new direction for the pop star.

MOMENT: Lana Del Rey’s imminent venture into country music with her album Lasso is highly anticipated, given her inherent affinity with the genre's themes.

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