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Entertainment
Rebekah Manibog

2024 WRAPPED: The Biggest, Best & Most Bonkers Stories Of The Year

Are you in a mood to reminisce, cringe, fall in love and cringe all over again? Well, I’ve got just the thing for you — a chunky list of all the moments that defined us as a society in 2024.

IDK about the rest of y’all, but I went through a bunch of unplanned plot twists this year. Pair it with all the stand-out events that changed the world, and you’ve truly got a disgusting rom-com horror story perfect for an A24 production, IMO.

So to celebrate 2024 — or what I like to claim as the 365 days we all decided to do a bunch of questionable shit “for the plot” — I’ve compiled a big timeline of all the moments that have truly had us gobsmacked as a collective.

Without further ado, here are all the moments that defined us as a society in 2024.

All the cooked, fun, sad and heartwarming moments of 2024

Jo Koy completely bombs as Golden Globes host

Month: January 2024

(Image source: Rich Polk/Golden Globes 2024/Golden Globes 2024 via Getty Images)

And the Golden Globe for the shittiest way to start a new year goes too…

To give you a quick recap, comedian Jo Koy was given the ‘yuge opportunity to host the Golden Globes — one of Hollywood’s biggest nights on the Award Season calendar.

Unfortunately, Koy’s jokes did not land with the Hollywood elite or the punters watching from home. Throughout the show, folks took to X to completely clown the comedian and his attempts at winning the crowd.

One joke that got folks particularly riled up was about Taylor Swift.

“The big difference between the Golden Globes and the NFL? On the Golden Globes, we have fewer camera shots of Taylor Swift, I swear,” Koy said to minimal laughter.

It did not go down well.

In an interview with Good Morning America’s GMA3: What You Need To Know, the comedian revealed that he and his writers only had 10 days to come up with the monologue.

“Yes, I’m a standup comic but that hosting position is a different style,” he said.

“I kind of went in and did the writers’ thing. We had 10 days to write this monologue. It was a crash course. I feel bad, but I got to still say I loved what I did.”

Although the bloke bombed, I can’t help but feel bad for him. Hope he comes back stronger.

Australian sports icons Nathan Cleary and Mary Fowler soft launch their relationship

Month: January 2024

2024 kicked off with some major cuteness with Penrith Panthers champ Nathan Cleary and Matildas queen Mary Fowler soft launching their relationship on IG!

Dating rumours between these two had been bubbling since the 2023 Women’s World Cup, so I guess you can say we manifested it? Or maybe they law of assumptioned the relationship into existence?

Despite the soft launch, it wasn’t until November that these two sporty lovebirds went public with their relationship.

Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour takes over Australia

Month: February 2024

(Image source: Erika Goldring/TAS24/Getty Images for TAS Rights Management)

Does this really need a summary? I feel like a bunch of y’all Aussie Swifties are still stuck in the Eras Tour as we speak!

Taylor Swift finally brought her giant Eras Tour to Sydney and Melbourne and the rest was her-story!!!

Kate Middleton reveals cancer diagnosis after a worldwide conspiracy theory that she was ‘missing’

Month: March 2024

In March, royal fans began worrying about the Princess Of Wales Kate Middleton after they realised that she hadn’t been seen in public for more than two months.

Following the speculation surrounding her whereabouts, the official IG account for the Prince and Princess of Wales shared an Instagram post of Kate with her three kids in celebration of Mother’s Day. However, eagle-eyed fans quickly noticed that there were some inconsistencies in the images. Shortly after, photo distribution outlets like Getty Images and Associated Press pulled the images over suspicions they had been manipulated.

After that, the generalised worry for Kate blew up into a worldwide conspiracy that she’d gone missing.

To clear things up, Kate shared a video statement in which she revealed that she was undergoing chemotherapy after being diagnosed with cancer.

“In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London,” Kate began.

“At the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. However, tests after the operation found cancer had been present. William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family.”

Reesa Teesa takes over TikTok with “Who TF Did I Marry?” series

Month: March 2024

(Image source: TikTok / @reesamteesa)

American TikToker Reesa Teesa — also known as Tareasa Johnson — captivated the world with her after spilling the deets on her whirlwind romance with a bloke named “Legion“.

The 50-part TikTok series (yes, 50 videos), went soooo viral that Insecure and White Lotus writer Natasha Rothwell picked it up for a cheeky TV series.

Overall Teesa managed to nab more than 400 million views with her story, and with Rothwell’s starpower, the show is bound to be a hit.

Baby Reindeer stalking everyone’s mind

Month: April 2024

Jessica Gunning as Martha Scott in Baby Reindeer
(Image source: Netflix / Baby Reindeer)

From the moment Baby Reindeer dropped on Netflix, it became the most talked-about show of the moment. From memes like “sent from ipheon” to jokes about stalking, Baby Reindeer was on the tip of everyone’s tongue.

To give you a quick refresher on what the series is about, the plot follows failed comedian Donny Dunn (Richard Gadd), who decides to show some kindness to Martha when she rocks up to the pub he works at. Following that one small act of kindness, Martha (Jessica Gunning) grew so obsessed with Donny that it drove him to breaking point.

The plot is loosely based on the real-life experiences of Richard Gadd, who wrote and starred as Donny on the show.

Following the show’s success, Gadd emphasised that Martha was also a victim of the system that failed to help her and her mental health issues. Gadd urged audiences to not go and find her.

Despite his efforts, the internet did some digging. After a hefty dose of speculation, a woman named Fiona Harvey came forward and claimed she was the “real-life Martha”. In an interview with Piers Morgan, Harvey claimed that Baby Reindeer‘s Martha was based on her.

Due to the “based on a true story” label used by the series, Harvey went on to sue Netflix for $170 million USD ($255 million AUD) for defamation. The trial is set for May 6, 2025.

Bruce Lehrmann is literally, on the balance of probabilities, a rapist and a loser

Month: April 2024

(Image source: Getty Images)

To speed run you through the results of what has been touted as the “trial of the decade”, former Liberal staffer Bruce Lehrmann lost his defamation case against Network 10 and Lisa Wilkinson. On top of that, Justice Michael Lee found that on the balance of probabilities, Lehrmann did rape Brittany Higgins in Parliament House during the early hours of March 23, 2019.

Bruce Lehrmann has officially been dubbed a loser, and on the balance of probabilities, a rapist. However, in May, Lehrmann lodged an appeal to the Federal Court’s decision. The appeal is expected to be heard in August 2025.

Domenica Calarco and Ella May Ding get grilled for hosting MAFS 2024 villain Jack Dunkley on the Sit With Us podcast

Month: May 2024

(Image source: Instagram / @sitwithus and @itsalotpod)

Married At First Sight besties Domenica Calarco and Ella May Ding came under fire after they invited MAFS 2024 villain Jack Dunkley on their podcast Sit With Us.

Following their interview, the pair were accused of “victim blaming” after Dunkley attempted to unpack why he told another groom to put a “muzzle” on his bride.

The trio’s comments about the “muzzle” remark spread like wildfire, with many listeners calling out the duo for standing with Dunkley and his actions on the show.

Australian entertainment powerhouse Abbie Chatfield slammed the duo and accused them of “being traitors to feminism”.

The backlash got so intense, the podcast soon came to an end, as did the tight-knit friendship between Dom and Ella.

TikTok is obsessed with a fully conscious baby

(Image: PEDESTRIAN.TV / TikTok)

You know what I always say, if you can support your neck, you can support yourself. That certainly seemed to be the case with this particular baby named Kate who went viral for appearing to be more conscious and significantly smarter than you and I most babies her age.

The obsession began when baby Kate’s aunt posted a video asking her nieces whether they wanted to go visit the Four Seasons hotel in Orlando, Florida. Kate, who was only one at the time, stuck her finger up in the air and responded “me” with such clarity that people around the world were gobsmacked.

She was quickly dubbed the “fully conscious baby” and TikTokers began making edits, dubbing her with very sophisticated language. Also, Kate and her family did get an all-expenses paid trip to the Four Seasons Orlando, so that’s a win.

2024 Met Gala carpet gave rental crisis realness

Month: June 2024

(Image source: Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images)

While last year’s Met Gala enthusiasts were hooked on the cockroach who stunned on the carpet, it was the carpet itself that left punters scratching their heads.

For 2024’s fashion Christmas, the theme was “Garden of Time”, so to match the theme, organisers seemingly stained a portion of the carpet with this mossy green shade.

While it did give off a whimsical, botanical, poison ivy vibe, it almost reminded some folks of mould.

STINKY!

Rat boys are what the 2024 girlies are living for

Month: June 2024

Although the thought of a golden retriever boyfriend sounds like a bloody need, 2024 made space for rat boys!

Blokes who present rat-like features, like Matty Healy, Mike Feist and Josh O’Connor were all the rage this year.

To give you a quick definition of a rat boyfriend, they’re pretty much just blokes who kinda resemble rats. Think beady eyes, small mouths, big ears, pointy features and if you’re lucky, a thicc tail (if ya catch my drift).

They’re allegedly supposed to be smarter than golden retrievers, but IDK.

Justin Timberlake gets done for drunk driving

Month: June 2024

(Image source: Sag Harbor Police Department via Getty Images)

In early June, former *NSYNC member Justin Timberlake was charged with one count of driving while intoxicated after he was pulled over for a traffic violation in New York’s Long Island.

While most folks on the internet were cackling at the singer’s mugshot, many began to lose their shit when the interaction between the cop and Timberlake was shared by an inside source.

Per Page Six, the police officer was allegedly “so young he didn’t even know” who Timberlake was.

“Justin said under his breath, ‘This is going to ruin the tour,’ The cop replied, ‘What tour?’ Justin said, ‘The world tour,’” a source told Page Six.

Hawk Tuah girl takes over the internet

Month: June 2024

(Image source: YouTube / Mike & Dee TV)

Following a street interview with Tim & Dee TV, Hailey Welch became uber-famous for saying the words “hawk tuah”.

The context behind the viral quote was actually her response to the question: “What’s one move in bed that makes a man go crazy every time?”

To which Welch replied: “You gotta give ’em that ‘hawk tuah’ and spit on that thang.”

Since then, Welch has made some cashola from her 15 minutes of fame by doing club appearances, launching her own podcast called Talk Tuah and her own crypto currency. You just can’t make this shit up.

Charli xcx changes the pop game with Brat

Month: June 2024

The real pop girlies know that Charli xcx has been steadily influencing the pop game since she hit the scene in the early 2010s. However, it wasn’t until the release of her lime-green album Brat that the British It-girl truly got the flowers she deserved.

Although the Brat album instantly hit the top 100 charts around the world, it was bigger than that. Brat was a movement, a state of mind, an aesthetic. It only picked up momentum when Charli resolved a long-held feud with Lorde on the remix of her track “Girl, So Confusing”.

She followed this up with an entire remixed album featuring the likes of Ariana Grande, The Japanese House, Addison Rae, Tinashe and Bon Iver, just to name a few.

Rawdogging flights is in

Month: July 2024

(Image source: TikTok)

While most folks geek out over the in-flight entertainment whilst travelling, there was a period where people (mainly dudes) were rawdogging flights. In other words, doing absolutely nothing in your plane seat for hours on end. No music, no movies, no flight paths, no nothing!

Although I’ve yet to try it because I am a sucker for a window seat and sad songs, rawdogging was huge a travel thing for a bit.

@torrenfoot

Proud of this one 👏🏽

♬ original sound – torrenfoot

Donald Trump survives assassination attempt

Month: July 2024

(Image source: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

US Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump was almost shot dead during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Following the incident, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to report that the bullet had grazed his ear and thanked the Secret Service and police for their service.

“I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin,” he wrote.

“Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening.”

The FBI identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was killed at the scene by US Secret Service personnel.

Tenacious D cancel tour following controversial joke regarding Trump’s attempted assassination

Month: July 2024

(Image source: Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

During a Tenacious D show in Newcastle, NSW, Kyle Gass made a joke regarding Trump’s recent assassination attempt.

When Jack Black, the second half of Tenacious D, asked Gass to make a wish before blowing out his candles, the comedian replied, “Don’t miss Trump next time”.

@noisepollutionyt KGs birthday wish "don't miss #trump next time" #tenaciousd #sydney #birthday ♬ original sound – Noise Pollution

Whilst most folks laughed at the joke, the rocking duo did cop some backlash. As a result, the band ended up cancelling the remainder of their tour and both put out statements denouncing political violence.

Paris 2024 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony wows viewers but conservatives (like always) are pissed

Month: July 2024

(Image source: 9Now / Paris 2024 Olympics)

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games Opening Ceremony was truly a hoot. It featured a performance from Lady Gaga, a headless Marie Antionette and Céline Dion!

While most of us were captivated by France’s creativity with the Opening Ceremony, conservatives had their knickers in a twist over a reimagining of Leonardo da Vinci‘s Last Supper which featured a diverse range of performers such as drag queens and an almost nude blue man.

Following the cries of conservatives, the organisers behind the opening apologised, stating that they didn’t intend to “mock or denigrate anyone”.

Gypsy Rose Blanchard announces pregnancy

Month: July 2024

(Image source: Instagram / @gypsyrose.ig)

Months after officially leaving prison and filing for divorce from husband Ryan Anderson, Gypsy Rose Blanchard announced that she was pregnant with ex-fiancé Ken Urker.

For those who may not remember, Gypsy Rose Blanchard gained infamy after she was charged with the second-degree murder of her mother Clauddine “Dee Dee” Blanchard, who had subjected Gypsy to a childhood of mental, physical and medical abuse.

Dee Dee had Munchausen-by-proxy, a mental health condition where she imposed fictitious medical disorders on her daughter to receive sympathy or attention.

“All the things I wanted in a mother, I want to give to this baby,” Gypsy said in her pregnancy announcement.

“Knowing that I am a mother now and I am happy. I just want to be a good mother to my child. I want to be everything my mother wasn’t.”

Katy Perry’s flop era continues

Month: July 2024

Katy Perry Woman's World 143
(Image source: YouTube / Katy Perry)

While society yearns for more hyper pop anthems, after Charli xcx’s smash album Brat, Katy Perry fans were keen to see that she was returning with some new tunes too.

After all, she dominated the 2010s with bangers like “Teenage Dream”, “California Gurls” and “Roar”.

However, her return to the music scene — with the single “Woman’s World” — was not met with grace, with fans brutally roasting the track, and labelling the song as “garbage”.

It also didn’t help that Perry was criticised for teaming up with Dr Luke, who had been previously accused of sexual assault and emotional abuse by Kesha, for the single.

Dr Luke denied all accusations and the lawsuit was dismissed.

Ballerina Farm sparks discussions on trad-wives

Month: August 2024

Hannah Neeleman. (Image source: Instagram / @ballerinafarm)

Following an interview with The Times, TikToker Hannah Neeleman (who posts under the online username Ballerina Farm) went viral for sparking an online discussion about “trad-wife” culture, despite the influencer wanting to distance herself from that term.

The discussion was sparked by Neeleman’s love story with her husband Daniel Neeleman. Readers started to dissect how much she sacrificed in the relationship and it wasn’t long before folks began voicing their concerns about their union, sharing their hot takes on Ballerina Farm and whole “trad-wife” lifestyle in general.

Despite everyone chucking their two cents on their marriage, the Neelemans have remained unbothered. However, some readers accused The Times‘ article of journalistic bias.

@schoolpsych.mom

Replying to @user358276552612 UPDATE! Journalist releases new statement today. Pretty much the only video you need to see on Ballerina Farm. #ballerinafarm #greenscreen

♬ original sound – Sophie Zee

It truly was a doozy if you’re chronically online!

Olympic pole vaulter has his gold medal dreams ruined by his very own flesh pole

Month: August 2024

(Image source: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

Team France’s Anthony Ammirati, 21, went viral after his peen smacked down the bar during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games pole vaulting event. Imagine being so well endowed that your own schlong ruins your chances at the Olympics?

You win some, you lose some, I guess.

Realise how it’s always schlongs that cause trouble???

Rachael ‘Raygun’ Gunn goes viral for Olympic Games breaking event routine

Month: August 2024

(Image source: Getty Images)

The Paris 2024 Olympic Games were the first time breaking (or break dancing) had an official event in a major sporting competition.

One of the most exciting events at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games was breaking, or break dancing. It was the first time the sport had appeared at the Games and many were keen to see moves reminiscent of Step Up. Or at the very least, Step Up 2: The Streets.

Instead, punters were left stunned by the extremely creative and original routine by Team Australia’s Dr Rachael ‘Raygun’ Gunn.

Throughout her rounds, Raygun served a series of unique breaking moves such as a kangaroo hop and the sprinkler.

The moves instantly made her viral on social media, with some folks either loving her enthusiasm and others slamming her, accusing the athlete of viewing the Olympic Games as a joke.

@watchmojo

The breakdancing game was never the same 😎 #raygun #olympics #paris2024

♬ original sound – watchmojo

Olympians fall sick after swimming in the Seine at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

Month: August 2024

(Image source: Martin Bureau – Pool/Getty Images)

A total of eight Olympians fell sick with suspected E.Coli infections after swimming in the Seine for the Paris 2024 triathlon event.

Ahead of the Olympics, the French Government spent a whopping €1.4 billion (AUD$2.3 million) to clean up the Seine. Despite cleaning efforts, the event was delayed due to unsafe levels of E.coli bacteria in the water so it really was no surprise that a few Olympians ended up being sick from swimming through the muck.

Rumours of a feud between It Ends With Us stars Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni begin to bubble

Month: August 2024

(Image source: Sony / It Ends With Us)
@pedestriantv

So… do we reckon Blake Lively is beefing with Justin Baldoni? #booktok #itendswithus #colleenhoover

♬ original sound – PEDESTRIAN.TV

Ahead of the release of It Ends With Us — a film based on a book by Colleen Hover which features themes of domestic and emotional abuse in romantic relationships — rumours of a feud between the film’s leading stars, Blake Lively and director Justin Baldoni began to circulate.

The whispers kicked off at the film’s premiere, where Baldoni was only pictured alongside his wife and shared no pics with his castmates despite being the director and starring in a leading role. Lively was pictured alongside castmates Brandon Sklenar and Jenny Slate, who starred in supporting roles.

Following that premiere, inside sources decided to come out of the woodwork with their two cents on why Lively and Baldoni didn’t get along, claiming that the pair often clashed over creative control. There were even rumours that Baldoni fat-shamed Lively on set.

@pedestriantv

Now that more ‘It Ends With Us’ behind-the-scenes tea has been spilled, let’s boil the kettle and have a sip. #itendswithus #itendswithusbook #itendswithusmovie #colleenhoover #booktok

♬ original sound – PEDESTRIAN.TV

Baldoni went on to hire Hollywood crisis public relations manager Melissa Nathan to handle the fall out, according to The Hollywood Reporter and PEOPLE. Eventually, both stars hinted at some tension on set. During an interview with Hits Radio UK, Blake Lively revealed that she had to fight to keep Lana Del Rey‘s “Cherry” in It Ends With Us.

While Justin Baldoni admitted to Elle that there was “friction on set” when making the long-awaited film.

“It’s very challenging to act and direct, and especially with a project like this… there was a lot of pressure playing such a complex role like Ryle and, of course, as a filmmaker, you’re always navigating personalities,” he explained. 

“There’s always friction that happens when you make a movie like this. Then at the end of the day, it’s that friction, I believe, that creates the beautiful art.”

Neither celeb directly confirmed or pointed fingers at each other, but folks were wholeheartedly invested in this beef!

Arisa Trew makes history by becoming Australia’s youngest gold medalist

Month: August 2024

(Image source: Julian Finney/Getty Images)

After completely shredding the Women’s Park skateboarding event at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Arisa Trew managed to not only nab a gold medal at just 14 but also became the youngest Aussie gold medalist in history.

When I grow up, I want to be her!

Boy Swallows Universe star Felix Cameron wins Logie for Best New Talent and Best Lead Actor

Month: August 2024

Boy Swallows Universe stars Lee Tiger Halley and Felix Cameron on the TV WEEK Logies red carpet. (Image: PEDESTRIAN.TV)

Rising star Felix Cameron managed to nab two 2024 TV WEEK Logies for his role as Eli Bell in the Netflix series Boy Swallows Universe.

However, it was his speech for the Graham Kennedy Award for Most Popular New Talent that captivated audiences across the globe.

“I’d like to thank my friends, family, my brother, my sister and my mum and dad,” Felix said, tearing up at the mention of his family.

“I’d like to thank my drama teacher Nadia Townsend. Couldn’t have done it without you.

“She had a saying that we were climbing a mountain. She never clarified whether it was Everest or the Dandenongs, but I think we got there.”

We must protect Felix at ALL COSTS.

@pedestriantv

Sign him up for the next Olympics! ✨

♬ original sound – PEDESTRIAN.TV

Gold Logie winner Larry Emdur keeps promise to tattoo his fellow Gold Logie nominees initials on live TV

Month: August 2024

(Image source: The Morning Show)

After copping the highly-coveted Gold Logie, Larry Emdur had two choices: He could either hope the public would forget his promise to tattoo the initials of the other Gold Logie nominees on his ass, or he could go through with it on live TV. Thankfully, old mate is a man of his word.

Following the big night, on The Morning Show, Emdur kept his promise and tatted his ass on live TV.

To give you a quick rundown on who his fellow nominees include, here is who was in the running for a 2024 Gold Logie:

  • Tony Armstrong
  • Robert Irwin
  • Julia Morris
  • Sonia Kruger
  • Andy Lee
  • Asher Keddie

Cheeky, cheeky.

(Image source: The Morning Show)

Blake Lively dubbed a mean girl after journalist resurfaces brutal interview

Month: August 2024

(Image source: YouTube / Kjersti Flaa)

As Blake Lively continued to cop heat over the bubbling beef she had with It Ends With Us co-star and director Justin Baldoni, journalist Kjertsi Flaa shared an old interview she had with the star, describing it as the one that made her “want to quit her job”.

“Sitting down with Blake Lively and her co-star Parker Posey for Cafe Society (2016) is the most uncomfortable interview situation I have ever experienced,” the reporter wrote in the description of the YouTube video.

From congratulating Lively on her bump to trying to discuss the fashion in Cafe Society, Lively was not having a bar of what Flaa had to say.

Warning, the interaction is truly cringe.

Olympics athlete village goes crazy over chocolate cupcake

Month: August 2024

@henrikchristians1 If he decides to expose me, then I will expose him aswell @MaestaJon #fyp #olympics #paris2024 #olympictiktok #olympicvillage #muffinman #cookieman ♬ oh my god bruh oh hell na man

One of the biggest viral moments to come out of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games was Henrik Christiansen‘s obsession with the Olympic Village chocolate muffin.

Christiansen’s love for the cupcake was so strong it infected other athletes who all made TikToks trying the sweet treat before he took them all.

Team Australia swimmers Brianna Throssel and Jenna Forrester claimed it tastes similar to the Woolies chocolate mudcake we all know and love.

However, there was also a recipe going around claiming it was the real deal! Check out PEDESTRIAN.TV’s Issy Phillips’ take on the cake below.

@pedestriantv Woolies chocolate mud cake will always be a gold medal winner in our eyes. 🏅 #parisolympics2024 #parisolympics #olympics #Paris2024 #olympicsmuffin #parisolympicschocolatemuffin #CapCut ♬ original sound – PEDESTRIAN.TV

Justin and Hailey Bieber welcome their first baby

Month: August 2024

(Image source: Instagram / @justinbieber)

On August 24, Hollywood power couple Justin and Hailey Bieber announced the arrival of their first child, Jack Blues Bieber.

The pair revealed the birth of their baby via a sweet Instagram post showing Hailey holding Jack’s teenie-tiny foot.

“WELCOME HOME, JACK BLUES BIEBER 🐻,” the post was captioned.

There’s something so chic about a celeb baby being called Jack, in my opinion.

Australian hospitality giant Swillhouse issues apology following allegations of toxic work culture

Month: August 2024

(Image source: Instagram / @lefoote)

Swillhouse — which own iconic hospitality establishments such as Le Foote, Restaurant Huber and Shady Pines Saloon — issued a public apology following a bombshell report that detailed allegations of sexual assault, harassment and drug use at its venues.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald report, five former female staff members claimed they were sexually assaulted, harassed by other Swillhouse employees, encouraged to have sex with customers and take drugs on shift.

“Our sincere apologies,” the statement began.

“This week our business has faced scrutiny with distressing claims about how Swillhouse used to operate in the past. We sincerely apologise to anyone who has felt hurt, unsafe, unprotected, triggered or unheard.

“We particularly extend this apology to our female staff, guests, friends and family.”

Australia Ranks overall 4th in Paris 2024 Olympic Games Medal Tally

Month: August 2024

Ariarne Titmus nabs gold for Australia in the 400m freestyle event. (Image source: Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

After an eventful 16 days, Team Australia officially placed fourth in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games medal tally after scoring a total of 53 medals.

To break it all down, Australia managed to nab 18 gold, 19 silver and 16 bronze. Alongside all that glory, B-Girl Rachael ‘Raygun’ Gunn managed to put Australia on the map with her iconic kanagaroo and sprinkler moves.

The next Olympics will be held in Los Angeles, USA in 2028. Unfortunately, Breaking will not be returning for that big round of sport.

Month: August 2024

(Image source: Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

During the Olympics, Algerian boxer and gold medalist Imane Khelif found herself in the centre of a storm of harassment after she defeated Italian boxer Angela Carini, who told the press that she’d “never felt a punch” like the one she copped from Khelif. It sparked discussions over Kehlif’s gender, which was exacerbated after news of her failing a controversial eligibility test at last year’s World Championships surfaced.

After weeks of being harassed online, Khelif officially filed a legal complaint. In the following days, it was revealed that Elon Musk, J.K. Rowling and Donald Trump would be a part of investigations due to their online posts about the boxer.

Rebel Wilson and Ramona Arguma officially tie the knot in Italian wedding

Month: September 2024

(Image source: Instagram / @rebelwilson)

Aussie comedian Rebel Wilson officially married fashion designer Ramona Arguma in a secret wedding in Sardinia, Italy on September 28.

The pair didn’t spill too much deets on their nuptials, but the pair have since shared snapshots of their big day! How sweet! It’s what they deserve.

(Image source: Instagram / @rebelwilson)

Australia places 9th in Paris 2024 Paralympic Games

Month: September 2024

Benjamin Hance wins gold at Para Swimming Men’s 100m Backstroke. (Image source: Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)

Following Australia’s stellar performance at the Paris 2024 Olympics, Aussie athletes at the Paralympic Games managed to nab 63 medals!

This includes 18 gold, 17 silver and 28 bronze. As the battle cry goes: AUSSIE, AUSSIE, AUSSIE, OI, OI, OI!

Australian hospitality giant Merivale accused of exploiting female employees and promoting drug use

Month: September 2024

Hemmesphere, Merivale owned bar. (Image source: Merivale)

Leading Aussie hospitality Merivale group was embroiled with controversy after former employees and patrons accused the company of putting women at risk, allegedly condoning drug use and failing to address claims of sexual assault.

Following the news, NSW Police confirmed that its investigating one of the incidents that was mentioned in a detailed ABC investigation which brought the allegations to light.

“Officers from Sydney City Police Area Command are conducting inquiries regarding an incident which is alleged to have occurred at a licensed premise on George Street, Sydney on Saturday 9 March 2024,” they wrote.

“As investigations are ongoing, police will not make any further comment.”

The accusations made against the hospitality giant comes a month after rival hospitality group Swillhouse was accused of sexual harassment and promoting drug use in its establishments.

Month: September 2024

(Image source: Instagram / @kirshakaechele)

In April 2024, Tassie’s Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) was found to have discriminated against New South Wales man, Jason Lau, who was denied entry to a female-only exhibition. In September of 2024, Justice Shane Marshall overturned the decision, allowing the Ladies Lounge to reopen.

In December, Kirsha Kaechele — the curator of the exhibit and wife of MONA’s owner David Walsh — declared that the lounge would re-open for a month before closing its doors for good.

Chappell Roan completely drags paparazzi at the 2024 MTV VMAs

Month: September 2024

“Hot To Go” icon and muse of my life Chappell Roan went completely rogue at the 2024 MTV Video Music Awards, telling a photographer to “shut the fuck up”.

@pedestriantv

“You shut the f*ck up!” [via americanreqiuem] #vmas #chappellroan #redcarpet

♬ original sound – PEDESTRIAN.TV

When asked about the iconic incident, Roan told an Entertainment Tonight reporter that red carpets give her anxiety, especially with all the yelling that goes on.

“This is quite overwhelming and quite scary, I think for someone who gets a lot of anxiety around people yelling at you, the carpet is horrifying,” she said. 

“I yelled back. I yelled back! You don’t get to yell at me like that.”

Love, love, love her for this.

Melbourne boy gets flamed after whinging about his date’s Yo Chi order

Month: September 2024

Melbourne bloke Flyn Martin went viral on TikTok after sharing his “nightmare date story”. What was the nightmare, you ask?

His unnamed date was indulging herself to “an absurd amount of yoghurt” and toppings, which he really didn’t want to pay for.

“I don’t know if it’s because I’m really poor or I’m actually just a reasonable human, but when I put my toppings on, it’s really a reasonable amount. I’m not gonna put straight scoops, fucking scooping that shit on. I’m maybe putting like one little boba ball on it,” he said.

Following his “nightmare date story”, TikTok completely ate him up. Yo Chi itself also poked fun at the Melb boi, using audio from his storytime to make the perfect froyo cup!

@iloveyochi

Replying to @ki ☆ no but seriously never judge what’s in my Yo-Chi cup 💅

♬ original sound – iloveyochi

Ryan Murphy and Netflix cop backlash over Lyle and Erik Menendez show

Month: September 2024

(Image source: Netflix / Monsters: The Lyle & Erik Menendez Story)

As the world waited for the next Baby Reindeer, Netflix dropped a true-crime series, Monsters: The Lyle & Erik Menendez Story. The series followed the story of siblings who infamously murdered their parents José and Mary Louise Menendez back in 1989. 

The show — created by Scream Queens big dog Ryan Murphy — is a follow-up to Murphy’s last controversial series, Monsters: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story.

Just like Dahmer, the show copped a shit tonne of backlash, with viewers criticising how Murphy portrayed the brothers and critiquing the series for being “riddled with inaccuracies”.

However, since then, it appears folks on TikTok are now making thirst traps of the actors as the sibling duo.

David Grohl admits to cheating and having a secret baby

Month: September 2024

(Image source: Leigh Vogel/Getty Images for The Recording Academy)

Foo Fighters frontman David Grohl shook the world after he admitted to cheating on his wife of 21 years Jordyn Blum in a brutally honest Instagram post.

Alongside the infidelity, Grohl also revealed that he had fathered a child with the other woman.

“I’ve recently become the father of a new baby daughter, born outside of my marriage,” he wrote in a text post.

“I plan to be a loving and supportive parent to her. I love my wife and my children, and I am doing everything I can to regain their trust and earn their forgiveness.

“We’re grateful for your consideration toward all the children involved as we move forward together.”

Grohl and Blum have been married since 2003 and share three kids: Violet, 18, Harper, 15, and Ophelia, 10.

Chappell Roan pops off at the paparazzi again (and as she should)

Month: October 2024

(Image: PEDESTRIAN TV/ Getty Images)

During the Los Angeles premiere of Olivia Rodrigo‘s GUTS doco, Chappell Roan was getting her pics taken when she noticed a photographer who previously yelled at her at a Grammy’s afterparty.

“You were so disrespectful to me at the Grammys. You yelled at me at the Grammy party. Yes, at the Universal after-party. I remember. You were so rude to me, and I deserve an apology for that,” she said.

“Don’t do that to another artist again.”

Miss Girl truly is the femininomenon we need.

Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show returns and it’s… fine

Month: October 2024

(Image source: Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Victoria’s Secret)

After a five-year break, the controversial Victoria’s Secret fashion show returned. Whilst most folks were sceptical about how the show would turn out, fans were pleasantly surprised as the show featured diverse sizes, the return of OG angel Tyra Banks and Adriana Lima and the appearance of fashion world faves, Gigi and Bella Hadid.

Alex Consani also walked the runway, becoming the first-ever transgender model to walk for the Victoria’s Secret fashion show.

While there were some stand out moments, the return wasn’t as ground-breaking as fans hoped for.

Black balls take over Sydney beaches

Month: October 2024

(Image source: Randwick Council)

Ahead of the hot Aussie summer, mysterious black balls began to appear on beaches along NSW’s east coast. The balls first appeared in Coogee, then Bondi, Bronte, Tamarama and then Maroubra.

Unsure of what the balls actually were, local councils shut down beaches for cleaning and further investigations into what these black spheres really were.

(Image source: Randwick Council)

Although it looks like a burnt Panipuri, the balls were revealed to be a yucky combo of human faeces, cooking oil and drugs.

Glad I didn’t touch those little fuckers.

Oasis finally reunites

Month: October 2024

(Image source: Dave Hogan/Getty Images)

After years of public arguments, famously feuding brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher finally confirmed they would be putting up with each other long enough to return as beloved British rock band Oasis.

Better yet, they confirmed that they would be coming Down Under, touring Australia for the Oasis Live ’25 Tour. The beloved British bros confirmed that they would be playing five shows together from October to November in Melbourne and Sydney.

Unsurprisingly, Oasis tickets sold like hotcakes and some people were left without a spot in the mosh!

Crumbl Cookies showed up in Sydney… or did it?

Month: October 2024

(Image source:  @​​elle_easternsuburbsmum/TikTok and @sawyerhemsley/TikTok)

Sydney foodies were left gooped and gagged after they were seemingly tricked into thinking that cult-fave US bikkie brand, Crumbl Cookies, was hosting an official Aussie pop-up in North Bondi.

However, the so-called “pop-up” had no affiliation with the US cookie chain. Instead, it was discovered that the North Bondi was orchestrated by a bunch of cookie dealers who travelled to the US, bought a bunch of Cumbl Cookies, and upsold them Down Under for $17.50.

Eventually, when reviews of the Sydney pop-up started to appear on TikTok, Cumbl Cookie co-founder Sawyer Hemsley — who co-founded the cult fave with Jason McGowan in 2017 — confirmed that it wasn’t affiliated with their brand.

“You need to try them fresh in the [US]! This pop-up is not affiliated with Crumbl Cookies,” she wrote under Elle‘s (@elle_easternsuburbmum) TikTok Review.

You can watch our full in-depth breakdown of the cookie drama down below.

Channing Tatum and Zoë Kravitz call it quits

Month: October 2024

(Image source: Dave Benett/WireImage)

Hot Hollywood couple Channing Tatum and Zoë Kravitz called it quits after three years of dating. The split comes as a surprise as the pair recently worked together on Kravtiz’s directorial debut Blink Twice.

Saoirse Ronan gags Paul Mescal and Eddie Redmayne On The Graham Norton Show

Month: October 2024

(Image source: X / The Graham Norton Show)

In a seemingly light hearted discussion about self-defence on The Graham Norton Show, actor Saoirse Ronan gently reminded the male panel and the audiences that its something women have to think about daily.

To give you a quick debrief, Eddie Redmayne touched on different self-defence techniques and went on about how a phone could be used as a weapon. Paul Mescal took the opportunity to make a joke out of using a phone and went on to act out what it would look like if he were put in that circumstance.

Ronan then chimed in, telling her fellow actors and the audience, “That’s what girls have to think about all the time.”

The statement was met with a brief silence, which she broke by saying, “Am I right, ladies?”

Ronan was applauded for her mic drop moment by punters online, thanking her for spotlighting issues women have to go through every day.

Former One Direction member Liam Payne Dies

Month: October 2024

(Image source: by Mike Marsland/Mike Marsland/WireImage)

The world came to a standstill on October 16, 2024 when Argentinan authorities confirmed the death of former One Direction member and “Strip That Down” singer Liam Payne.

Liam died after falling from the third floor of his Casa Sur Hotel room in Buenos Aires. A preliminary autopsy later revealed that Liam’s cause of death was the injuries he sustained from the fall, which included internal and external bleeding.

The report also found that he had multiple drugs in his system at the time of his death, including pink cocaine.

Authorities soon launched an investigation into his death. Three people have since been charged in relation to Liam’s death including a hotel worker, a close friend and an alleged drug dealer.

In November, Liam Payne was officially laid to rest in a private funeral at Amersham, north-west of London. Former One Direction bandmates Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson were in attendance alongside Payne’s family and his girlfriend Kate Cassidy.

Payne is survived by his seven-year-old son Bear who he shared with Cheryl Tweedy.

Donald Trump wins the US Presidential Election against Kamala Harris

Month: November 2024

@pedestriantv

Trumps declares he will be elected as the 47th president. [Footage via: la_ser]

♬ original sound – PEDESTRIAN.TV

In what felt like Groundhog Day, Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump won the race to the White House against Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris on November 6.

Trump’s victory was seemingly solidified after nabbing the key swing states — Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.

Trump will officially return to his Presidential role on January 20, 2025. God bless (I guess?) and godspeed, ‘Murica.

(Image source: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

OnlyFans star Bonnie Blue gets Aussie visa revoked

Month: November 2024

British sex worker and OnlyFans creator Bonnie Blue left parents outraged after she revealed plans to boink any consenting 18-year-old male for content during Schoolies in the Gold Coast.

Following Blue’s public callout, many folks slammed her behaviour, labelling it as “exploitative” and “predatory”.

Days after she made the announcement, Blue’s visa was revoked, but not because of her public offering. Instead, according to news.com.au, the OnlyFans star’s visa was revoked due to her plans to work, which is not allowed on the 12-month visitor visa she held.

Bonnie Blue opted to head to Fiji alongside fellow sex worker Annie Knight, but the pair were faced with deportation after they were labelled “prohibited immigrants” by the country’s Home Affairs Minister Pio Tikoduadua.

The world gets Glicked down

Month: November 2024

Okay, okay. Sounds hella sexual, but I’m talking about the world growing obsessed with Gladiator II and Wicked: Part One.

Both movies came out in November and the world was starstruck. One was jam-packed with action and sweaty hotties while the other had beautiful musical ballads and stooning visuals.

Ah, the duality of film.

Wicked press tour chaos

Alongside the movie, Wicked‘s press tour itself is producing headline after headline! The movie’s stars, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande captivated punters through their wholesome answers and their emotions (and I’m talking heaps of tears) when discussing their stellar roles.

While our very own reporter Laura Masia got in on the action with the Wicked stars (which you can watch in full below!), it was one interview, with Out Magazine‘s Tacy E. Gilchrist that sent fans into a tizzy.

To give you a quick TL;DR, Gilchrist was responsible for that “holding space” meme after she explained the impact “Defying Gravity” had on the queer community to Erivo.

“I’ve seen this week people are taking the lyrics of ‘Defying Gravity’ and really holding space with that and feeling power in that,” Gilchrist shared.

Erivo immediately teared up and replied: “I didn’t know that was happening… That’s really powerful… That’s what I wanted.”

Gilchrist then responded to Erivo’s surprised reaction, saying: “I don’t know how widespread [it is] but you know, I’m in queer media.”

Peep the full interview below:

Following this snippet, folks on X began to quote “holding space” through a variety of memes.

In the end, Gilchrist commented that she gearing up to ask about the US election, which had only just happened days prior but was taken aback by the earnest response she immediately received from Cynthia.

Regardless, I continue to hold space for Gilchrist and this entire press conference.

Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan split

Month: December 2024

(Image source: Getty Images)

“Please Please Please” power couple Sabrina Carpenter and Barry Keoghan called it quits after a year of dating.

The reason behind the relationship’s demise has yet to be revealed. However, TikToker Breckie Hill was accused of cheating with Barry, which led to their split.

Following the rumours, Barry deactivated Instagram and issued a statement asking for respect from fans. Breckie also released her own TikTok video, shutting down the cheating scandal.

Joe Biden pardons his son Hunter Biden

Month: December 2024

(Image Evan Vucci-Pool/Getty Images)

In his final weeks as US President, Joe Biden issued a “full and unconditional” pardon to his son Hunter Biden, who faced federal charges of owning a gun and tax evasion.

“From the day I took office, I said I would not interfere with the Justice Department’s decision-making, and I kept my word even as I have watched my son being selectively, and unfairly, prosecuted,” Biden said in a statement regarding his decision.

“The charges in his cases came about only after several of my political opponents in Congress instigated them to attack me and oppose my election.”

Oh, to be a nepo baby.

Spotify Wrapped flopped

Month: December 2024

(Image source: Supplied)

Every year, punters who look forward to their Spotify Wrapped. However, this time around they were left bummed out after this year’s version completely tanked. Folks complained after a bunch of cool features like the beloved genre burger or the Sound Towns, were left out of the wrapped mix. It left many Wrapped enthusiasts baffled and complaining about the use of AI in this year’s Wrapped, particularly the AI-generated podcast.

In an email to PEDESTRIAN.TV, Spotify responded to the backlash by saying it looks “to bring a new and exciting experience to Wrapped for listeners, artists, and creators. It’s part of the secret sauce of Wrapped.”

“We’ve been working in this space for more than a decade. Since 2011, our investment in AI and, in particular, Machine Learning has made Spotify what it is today: a personalised experience for every user that drives discovery and connection through the power of recommendations,” it said.

“This year, we’ve refreshed the personalised user experience to include a few new things, including: A new Music Evolution data story that reveals the musical phases that uniquely defined your year, multiple easter eggs on Platform for fans to discover about this year’s global top artist, personalised stats around your top listening day and longest listening streak, and an AI podcast about your 2024 Spotify Wrapped, built with Google’s NotebookLM to name a few.”

The murder of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson

Month: December 2024

Brian Thompson, 50, pictured left and Luigi Mangione, 26, pictured right. (Image source: Associated Press)

On December 4, Brian Thompson — the CEO of a large American insurance company, UnitedHealthcare — was gunned down in a calculated attack. Police swiftly launched an investigation for the killer and in an effort to get tips from the public, they released a photo of a low-key kinda sexy man in a hoodie caught cheesin’ on camera.

Despite the man being a suspect in a murder case, the internet caught feelings for the “smiling assassin”.

As the search for the killer continued, police revealed that the gunman had written “delay”, “deny” and “depose” on the shell casings of the ammunition. The three words written by the masked gunman are similar to the phrase “delay, deny, defend” which is often used by lawyers to refer to the tactics allegedly used by insurance companies to avoid paying out claims to their customers.

From there, the smiling assassin was not just a hottie in a hoodie. He became a modern-day Robin Hood, sparking debates about class and the pitfalls of America’s health insurance system.

Days later, Luigi Mangione was arrested at Pennsylvania McDonalds for firearms charges, with authorities confirming that he is a “person of interest” in their investigation of the billionaire’s death. He has since been charged with the murder of Thompson’s death by New York prosecutors.

And that brings us to… well, now!

What a year it has been! It really does feel like we’ve lived a lifetime, doesn’t it? Either way, it’s been a doozy. Bring on 2025!!!!

The post 2024 WRAPPED: The Biggest, Best & Most Bonkers Stories Of The Year appeared first on PEDESTRIAN.TV .

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