Hollywood star Will Smith’s Oscar slap was the top YouTube moment of the year in Ireland, a list of the top trending moments of 2022 has revealed.
The half-time show at the Superbowl, the death of a much-loved Minecraft star and the Queen of England’s vigil also made it onto the list of most-watched moments on the video sharing platform.
Pop favourites Harry Styles and Lizzo were the most popular music videos amongst the Irish YouTube audience.
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We were most fascinated by current affairs, music videos and bizarrely funny videos, according to YouTube’s annual list of Ireland’s top trending videos, released today. It includes some of 2022’s biggest news stories and important cultural moments.
Julie Dilger, Google Ireland head of external communications, said: “Every year, the YouTube End-of-Year Top lists give us a valuable glimpse into the songs, people, and videos that dominated the past year in Ireland.
“YouTube is the place where everyone comes to see what has and is happening in the world while participating in, and having an impact on, today’s culture.”
But it was Smith’s slap – which became the talk of the world in March – that got most YouTube views.
The celebrity scandal – when Smith hit host Chris Rock in front of a live audience of millions – was the most watched clip online here. Best actor nominee Smith lost it when Rock made a joke about his wife Jada’s appearance, and stormed the stage and slapped him, while shouting insults at the comedian.
The iconic moment was captured in The Guardian newspaper’s video, entitled: “Watch the uncensored moment Will Smith smacks Chris Rock on stage at the Oscars, drops the F Bomb.” It was the most watched video in Ireland of the year.
The return of huge social events post-pandemic got our attention, as the second entry is the Super Bowl halftime show.
The performance featured hip-hop hits from rap superstars like Snoop Dogg, Dr Dre, Eminem, Mary J Blige and Kendrick Lamar.
The Sidemen — one of YouTube’s most popular creators — snatched the third most-watched video of the year for a live-streamed charity football match that raised money for four charities over 90 minutes.
It drew 2.6 million concurrent viewers.
YouTube Minecraft star Technoblade’s death in June — which was announced by his father reading his final message in a poignant video titled “So long, nerds” — was the fifth most-watched video of the year.
The young British youtuber was one of the most popular in Ireland.
The eyes of the world were on the UK in September, after the death of Queen Elizabeth — and many were surprised by the protocols for Royal Guards as they held vigil.
The sixth most watched video on YouTube explains the protocols British Military Guards must follow when they faint.
At number 10 in the list this year is the video by anonymous gamer Dream, who revealed his face after streaming for years behind a cartoon smiley-mask.
Top music videos showcase the musical tastes of the country over the past 12 months — with Harry Styles number one hit As It Was at the top of the Top 10 music video list.
It was the first single released from his Harry’s House album, shortly after he played to a packed Aviva Stadium.
Irish dance music duo, Belters Only, have two videos featured in the top ten music videos list, with their songs Make Me Feel Good and Don’t Stop Just Yet.
The big hit of the summer — About Damn Time from Lizzo — also featured on the list in seventh position.
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