You’ve Been Framed: What Do The 2024 Top 10 Google Searches Reveal?

The following are the top 10 Google searches for 2024 in News, People, Deaths, Film, and TV. Determined largely by the in-your-face coverage by corporate media outlets, it suggests that the audience’s imagination is being framed. Free will is partial with external forces dominant.

News

1. Euros 2024 Final
   England’s men’s football team reaching the Euro 2024 final captivated the nation. This historic moment in Germany marked the closest England has come to winning a major tournament on foreign soil. Despite their heartbreaking 2-1 loss to Spain, the tournament united fans in support of the Three Lions.
2. Liam Payne’s Tragic Passing
   The former One Direction member’s sudden death at 31 shocked the world. Payne’s fall from a Buenos Aires hotel balcony led to an outpouring of grief and tributes celebrating his musical legacy and impact on fans.
3. Jay Slater’s Disappearance
   The mysterious case of British teenager Jay Slater gripped the UK. His disappearance during a family vacation in Tenerife triggered an extensive search, which sadly ended when his body was discovered nearly a month later.
4. Michael Mosley’s Death
   Renowned TV doctor Michael Mosley went missing on the Greek island of Symi. The discovery of his body weeks later added to the year’s tragedies, leaving fans mourning a trusted figure in health journalism.
5. US Presidential Election
   Interest in global politics surged as Donald Trump prepared for his re-election campaign. With debates and controversies dominating headlines, the UK’s curiosity about the American election was palpable.
6. Kate Middleton’s Health
   The Princess of Wales’ extended absence from public life led to widespread speculation. News of her cancer diagnosis and treatment generated immense support and search activity.
7. Baby Reindeer
   The birth of a baby reindeer at a Scottish wildlife park provided a heartwarming moment amidst the year’s heavier news stories, attracting animal lovers and families alike.
8. 2024 Summer Olympics
   The Paris Olympics brought together athletes from around the globe, showcasing inspiring performances and historic achievements.
9. Oasis Tickets
   Following the band’s reunion announcement, fans flooded search engines with queries about securing tickets, reflecting the enduring appeal of one of Britain’s most iconic bands.
10. Fool Me Once
    The Netflix adaptation of Harlan Coben’s thriller kept viewers hooked, driving significant search interest in its plot twists and cast.

People

1. Kate Middleton
   The Princess of Wales was the year’s most-searched individual due to her cancer battle and her absence from royal duties, which ignited public concern and speculation.
2. Donald Trump
   Trump’s re-election bid stirred debate and intrigue, with his presence dominating headlines both in the US and internationally.
3. Luke Littler
   The teenage darts sensation made history as the youngest PDC World Championship finalist, earning admiration for his skill and determination.
4. Keir Starmer
   The Labour leader became Prime Minister in a landmark victory, ending 14 years of Conservative governance and signalling a shift in the UK’s political landscape.
5. Imane Khelif
   Algerian boxer Imane Khelif captivated sports fans with her inspiring performances, becoming a symbol of perseverance and excellence.
6. Alan Hansen
   The former football pundit was in the spotlight due to his commentary on England’s performance in Euro 2024 and his retrospective on his career.
7. King Charles III
   The King’s cancer diagnosis was another blow to the royal family, sparking widespread concern and well-wishes.
8. Richard Gadd
   The comedian and actor received recognition for his compelling performance in Baby Reindeer, drawing attention to the complexities of stalking and mental health.
9. Michelle Keegan
   The actress starred in several high-profile projects, cementing her place as one of the UK’s most beloved stars.
10. Yung Filly
    The musician and social media personality gained traction for his vibrant content and role in popular TV projects.

Deaths

1. Liam Payne
   Payne’s death was a defining moment in 2024, triggering global mourning and celebrations of his life and career.
2. Jay Slater
   The tragic end to the young teenager’s story left a lasting impression, with calls for greater awareness of travel safety.
3. Michael Mosley
   His death was a sobering moment for fans who had relied on his advice for healthier living.
4. Steve Wright
   The veteran broadcaster’s passing marked the end of an era in British radio.
5. Maggie Smith
   The death of the iconic actress known for her roles in Downton Abbey and the Harry Potter series was deeply felt across generations.
6. Robin Windsor
   The former Strictly Come Dancing star left behind a legacy of dazzling performances and contributions to dance.
7. Donald Sutherland
   The celebrated actor, known for roles in The Hunger Games and MASH*, was remembered as a cinematic legend.
8. Shannen Doherty
   The Beverly Hills, 90210 star’s battle with cancer ended this year, highlighting her strength and advocacy.
9. Kevin Campbell
   The former footballer’s passing prompted tributes from fans and players alike.
10. James Earl Jones
    The legendary actor, known for his commanding voice and roles in The Lion King and Star Wars, was mourned worldwide.

Film

1. Beetlejuice Beetlejuice
   Tim Burton’s sequel delighted fans of the 1988 original, with its signature dark humour and gothic aesthetics.
2. It Ends With Us
   The adaptation of Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel captured the hearts of readers and viewers alike.
3. Inside Out 2
   Pixar’s much-anticipated sequel continued to explore the complexities of emotions, resonating with audiences of all ages.
4. Dune: Part Two
   Denis Villeneuve’s epic sci-fi saga returned with stunning visuals and gripping storytelling.
5. Deadpool & Wolverine
   The crossover film brought beloved Marvel characters together in a blend of action and comedy.
6. Alien: Romulus
   A new chapter in the Alien franchise thrilled fans of the sci-fi horror genre.
7. Gladiator II
   Ridley Scott’s sequel delivered an epic spectacle, cementing its place in cinematic history.
8. Poor Things
   Yorgos Lanthimos’ surreal drama intrigued audiences with its bold narrative.
9. Madame Web
   This Marvel spin-off provided a fresh take on the Spider-Verse, featuring a strong female lead.
10. Joker: Folie à Deux
    The sequel to Joker continued to delve into the psyche of its infamous protagonist.

TV Shows

1. Baby Reindeer
   The gripping drama based on Richard Gadd’s life story sparked intense discussions on stalking and personal safety.
2. Fool Me Once
   This thriller kept viewers on the edge of their seats, driving curiosity about its twists.
3. The Gentlemen
   Guy Ritchie’s TV adaptation of his hit film garnered attention for its action-packed narrative.
4. One Day
   Based on the bestselling novel, this adaptation touched audiences with its heartfelt storytelling.
5. Fallout
   The video game adaptation brought a post-apocalyptic world to life on screen.

Very few of the above would have entered the consciouness of the public if it was not for the framing by the corporate media. Stories set on repeat pumped out until another story is framed and then pumped out. The selection is chosen for us. The aim is ultimately to distract and to keep the advertisers happy.

How Corporate Media Framed the UK’s Most Searched Topics of 2024

In 2024, Google’s annual review of the UK’s most searched topics offered an intriguing lens into the nation’s collective psyche. However, the way corporate media framed these events and individuals shaped public perception as much as the stories themselves. By selectively emphasising narratives, omitting alternative perspectives, and sensationalising key moments, the media played a central role in defining what the public cared about this year.

News: The Art of National Drama and Tragedy

Corporate media thrived on the drama of England’s journey to the Euro 2024 final, presenting the story as one of hope and heartbreak. Headlines painted the team as heroic underdogs fighting to overcome decades of disappointment. This story has been on repeat for decades. The narrative of a noble struggle captivated the public, even as critiques of tactical failures or systemic issues within English football were sidelined. The media’s portrayal of this moment as a collective national experience reinforced a sense of unity but left little room for critical discourse on the broader state of the sport.

In contrast, tragedies like the death of Liam Payne and the disappearances of Jay Slater and Michael Mosley were sensationalised to drive readership. The reporting often blended genuine concern with a voyeuristic fascination, amplifying personal details and speculating wildly about circumstances before facts were confirmed. Such coverage perpetuated a cycle of emotional engagement and dependency on updates, keeping these stories at the forefront of public attention.

Even lighter stories, like the birth of a baby reindeer, were strategically positioned as palate cleansers amidst a sea of heavier news. This framing underscored the media’s ability to curate an emotional rollercoaster, ensuring that audiences remained hooked on the constant stream of content.

People: Icons and Archetypes

The framing of Kate Middleton’s cancer diagnosis exemplified how corporate media constructs narratives around public figures. As the Princess of Wales stepped back from royal duties, speculation about her health was rife. Once her diagnosis was confirmed, coverage pivoted to one of resilience and dignity, casting her as an emblem of strength and grace. The media’s reliance on this archetype not only sought to humanise Kate but also sought to reinforce the monarchy’s symbolic role as a source of inspiration during difficult times. ‘How do the multiple countries without a monarchy ever manage?’ I hear many ask.

Donald Trump’s presence in the rankings was portrayed through the lens of controversy and spectacle. UK outlets often emphasised his polarising character, with coverage leaning into caricatures rather than nuanced analysis of his policies or the broader implications of his re-election campaign. The personality cult politics that has captured the USA is now being utilised in the UK. Style over substance takes a stranglehold.

Figures like darts prodigy Luke Littler and Labour leader Keir Starmer were similarly shaped by media narratives. Littler was celebrated as a relatable, working-class hero, with articles focusing on his quirks (like his love for kebabs) to make him accessible. Starmer’s rise to power, on the other hand, was framed as a historic shift, with much of the coverage contrasting his leadership style with his predecessors rather than scrutinising his policies in detail. Style over substance.

Entertainment: Nostalgia and Sensationalism

In entertainment, corporate media capitalised on nostalgia, particularly with Oasis’s reunion. Coverage revolved around the reconciliation of the Gallagher brothers, revelling in the emotional weight of their history rather than the practicalities of their tour or its impact on the music industry. This framing tapped into the public’s longing for the past, making the story as much about cultural memory as the event itself.

The film Beetlejuice Beetlejuice was similarly positioned as a return to a beloved classic. Media narratives focused on Tim Burton’s signature aesthetic and the nostalgia of the original, often glossing over critical reviews or industry perspectives. By framing the film as an event rather than a product, the media ensured sustained interest.

Meanwhile, Baby Reindeer and its associated controversies, including the lawsuit from Fiona Harvey, highlighted the media’s appetite for drama. Coverage of the legal battle often prioritised the sensational aspects over the deeper questions about privacy and the ethics of adapting real-life stories for entertainment.

Sports: Heroes and Villains

Athletes were predominantly framed as heroes, with corporate media constructing compelling personal narratives to generate engagement. Luke Littler, for instance, was celebrated not only for his sporting achievements but for his relatable backstory, positioning him as a symbol of youthful determination.

Similarly, Jude Bellingham’s rise was portrayed as the embodiment of British excellence, with outlets focusing on his discipline and character. However, the media’s emphasis on individual success often came at the expense of discussing systemic issues within sports, such as accessibility or funding disparities.

In boxing, the hype surrounding matches like Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul or Tyson Fury vs. Oleksandr Usyk reflected the media’s role in turning sports into spectacle. Coverage leaned heavily on pre-fight drama and personal rivalries, prioritising entertainment value over substantive analysis of the sport itself.

Framing of Searches: The Illusion of Public Interest

Corporate media’s coverage of search trends often blurred the line between reflecting public interest and shaping it. For instance, the prominence of queries like “How to vote in the UK” was framed as a sign of civic engagement, even as discussions of electoral reform or voter suppression were largely absent from mainstream narratives.

Similarly, the media latched onto the search for Northern Lights viewing opportunities, using it as an opportunity to highlight environmental issues. However, this framing often felt superficial, failing to connect individual curiosity with broader discussions about climate change or sustainable tourism.

The Role of Corporate Media in Shaping the Agenda

Ultimately, corporate media’s framing of the year’s most searched topics reveals its dual role as both a mirror and a moulder of public interest. By selecting which aspects of stories to highlight and how to present them, media outlets wield significant influence over what people care about and how they interpret events.

While Google’s search data offers a raw snapshot of societal interests, the media’s framing ensures that these interests are contextualised, often in ways that prioritise engagement over depth. This cycle perpetuates a curated version of reality, shaping not only what the public knows but also what it feels.

In 2024, as in years past, the stories that defined the UK were as much a product of media narratives as they were of the events themselves. This underscores the importance of critical and citizen media consumption in an age where information is abundant, but truth can be elusive.