Skip to Content
Categories:

Best People of 2024

Best People of 2024
(Photo courtesy of Jason Martin via Wikimedia Commons)
Chappell Roan

Throughout 2024, there has been the name of one pop artist on everyone’s tongue: Chappell Roan. She has become one of the world’s biggest pop stars in a short time. With the complexity of her music and the fact that it just makes you want to get up and dance, she deserves the spot as the best person of the year.

Roan started gaining popularity while she was on tour with Olivia Rodrigo as her opener for Rodrigo’s Guts World Tour. Her opening acts were so much of a success that her recognition and streams shot through the roof. After that, she started playing at a variety of music festivals with one of her performances at the Lollapalooza event drawing in the biggest crowd in Lollapalooza history. One defining moment of that event was when Roan performed her most iconic song, “HOT TO GO!” and the entire crowd did the dance that goes along with it. 

While her music is a big part of who she is, she also has been a huge inspiration to women and people of the LGBTQ+ community everywhere. Roan herself is part of the community and expresses those queer relationships in her songs which is unlike anything I have seen before. Along with inspiring people to be who they are and to love who they love, she has also been a motivator for people to set boundaries. At the VMA awards, a photographer inappropriately yelled at Roan while trying to get her attention for a shot. She responded and yelled at him for speaking to her in the way he did. Many people on social media criticized her for speaking this way, but she responded in the exact right way drawing the line of how to speak to her and other celebrities in the future. 

Chappell Roan has had one of the craziest years of her life from being a small, unknown opener for the Guts World Tour, to being a worldwide pop star who has broken records and barriers for many people in the future. In the words of Queen Chappell, “What we really need is a Femininomenon!”

(Photo courtesy of Jason Martin via Wikimedia Commons)
(Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons via GoodFon)
Lily-Rose Depp

Lily-Rose Depp is an actress and model who has become increasingly popular. She is the daughter of Johnny Depp, which helped her gain recognition. She is well-known in the fashion industry for influencing trends and styles. 

Her acting career has taken off recently, gaining respect and recognition for her amazing performances. She played Jocelyn in “The Idol” alongside The Weeknd and Jennie. She also played Ellen Hutter in “Nosferatu.” Her performance as Hutter was incredible. The movie used practical effects instead of CGI, making the movie’s success heavily rely upon the skills of the actors and actresses starring in this film. Depp’s performance was Oscar-worthy, not for a single scene did it feel like watching someone act, it felt like you were watching a real moment. 

Her modeling career has also been successful, earning her a role as ambassador for Chanel. She started doing runways at a young age because of her parents’ connections within the industry.  

Depp is popular amongst Gen Z because of her unique look and the trends she has influenced. 

(Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons via GoodFon)
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Creative Commons
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.de
Charles Leclerc

In the 2024 Formula One World Championship, Max Verstappen secured the title for the fourth consecutive year, while many other drivers experienced defining moments in both their seasons and careers. Perhaps no driver had more iconic moments despite losing in the championship than Scuderia Ferrari driver Charles Leclerc, who secured numerous wins in key races such as his home race in Monaco, along with the Italian Grand Prix, the home race for Ferrari. 

Leclerc’s career up to this season has been filled with numerous ups and downs. Despite starting in his home race five previous times, even starting from first position twice, various mistakes or incidents have led him to either finish in poor positions or even fail to reach the finish line on three separate occasions. But, fortunes changed in 2024’s edition of the race, as Leclerc was finally able to hold on to the pole and secure the emotional victory in his home race. The emotions continued to flow as just a few races later, Leclerc won Ferrari’s home race in Italy for the second time in his career.

Even though the road up to this point has not been easy for the Monegasque driver, his ability to keep pushing past the numerous setbacks he’s faced throughout his career is a testament to the mental grit being a Formula One driver takes. Despite not winning the championship for himself or his team this year, Leclerc proves time and time again that he’s always willing to confront his challenges head-on and aim for success; some of which he was able to achieve in 2024.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Creative Commons https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/deed.de
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons via Creative Commons
Cynthia Erivo

While British actress Cynthia Erivo has been acting since 2011, this year she became a household name for playing the main character, Elphaba Thropp, in Wicked: Part I. Because of this, many people become exposed to her other astounding performances in the past, such as her past role in the Broadway musical The Color Purple, and her lead role in the motion picture Harriet

Additionally, Erivo earned a Grammy Award nomination for Best Song Written for Visual Media for her performance of Stand Up, which she co-wrote with songwriter Joshuah Brian Campbell Harriet. This same song also was nominated for Best Original Song by both the Academy Award and the Golden Globe Award

Erivo is an incredibly powerful singer, a remarkable songwriter and an actress who brings so much emotion to the characters she portrays that the audience can’t help but admire her talent. Her commitment and passion in anything and everything she does shows in the works of art she produces and helps create – something that truly inspires me, and will hopefully do the same for many others.

Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons via Creative Commons
Joey Graziadei
Courtesy of Warner Bros.
Joey Graziadei

After finishing as runner-up on season 20 of “The Bachelorette” in 2023, Joey Graziadei became a fan-favorite heartthrob. In January of 2024, he led his own season of “The Bachelor” garnering even more attention to himself and making him a beloved public figure.

On season 28 of “The Bachelor” Graziadei fell in love with his now-fiancee, Kelsey Anderson, all while America continued to fall in love with him. Even though the series ended in March, fans still love to keep updated on their fairytale relationship.

In September of this year, it was announced that Graziadei was going to join the cast of the 33rd season of “Dancing with the Stars.” Though many did not know what to expect when it came to his dancing abilities, he ended up being a front-runner on the show. He consistently was in the top three on each night’s leaderboard and was praised online for his impressive dance skills.

He ended up taking home the coveted mirrorball trophy at the end of the season to the excitement of his new-found large fanbase. Now, at the end of 2024, it’s clear that Graziadei will continue to be a fan-favorite, and we can’t wait to see what’s in store for him next year.

Joey Graziadei Courtesy of Warner Bros. (Kendall Wilson)
Photo Courtesy of GoodFon.
Zendaya

Two words immediately come to mind when thinking about American actress and singer, Zendaya: iconic and successful. The 28-year-old has had countless accomplishments throughout her career, whether that’s through her history-making Emmy Awards for her notable performance in “Euphoria,” her take on “Dune: Part Two,” or her timeless fashion looks that are known to make a statement wherever she goes at any event. Zendaya began her career at the young age of 14, when she started to star on Disney Channel; fast forward all these years, she still manages to effortlessly stay relevant, and for good causes as well. 

Back in May 2024, Zendaya co-chaired the Met Gala for her iconic fashion looks; she even won a gold medal in street style at the Paris Olympics. Zendaya is known for being a style chameleon as she experiments with various styles of clothing and makes it work no matter what. To add to her list of achievements, she and Law Roach wrote the book on smart method dressing, covering revered runway collections and how to craft custom designer outfits. Zendaya continues to add to her list of talents and is not expected to stop anytime soon. There’s no doubt that Zendaya is the best person of 2024.

Photo Courtesy of GoodFon.
Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons via Creative Commons
Josh Allen

Josh Allen, the quarterback for the Buffalo Bills, has been making headlines both on and off the field. The 28-year-old quarterback out of Wyoming has been quite impressive this season, with a total of 3,731 passing yards this season. Allen is extremely entertaining to watch, showing off his athleticism by sprinting through 250 pound defensemen, contributing to 28 touchdowns. 

Allen is a front-runner for the MVP award this season, and I feel that with the way he has shaped the team he more than deserves it. Although other quarterbacks have been outstanding this season, I feel like Allen has really shown his worth both on and off the field to make his mark on the team. His teammates all support him and he supports them right back, treating them like family. 

The star quarterback has also recently proposed to actress Hailee Steinfeld, and now that he has shown his love to her, he is showing his love for football as well. His stats have been off the charts since his engagement and you can tell that he is enjoying himself. 

He not only is adored by family and teammates but by the fans as well. I can personally say that he has brought a sense of joy to the fans of the Buffalo Bills, and we support him fully in everything he does for the team. I personally look forward to seeing how he performs moving forward, and I think he is the best person of the year. 

Photo Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons via Creative Commons
Courtesy of Setoxxx via Wikimedia https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charli_XCX_The_performing_artist.jpg
Charli XCX

Charli XCX is a British hyper-pop artist who garnered mainstream acclaim in 2024 for her sixth studio album, “Brat.” Charli’s innovative approach to music draws in an audience of ravers and bedroom dancers. 

With the release of “Brat,” Charli sparked a massive trend known as “Brat Summer.” This trend is characterized by individualism and hedonistic attitudes synonymous with Charli’s public image. Charli’s influence on 2024 is undeniable. Throughout the year, Charli helped shape fashion, internet trends, pop culture and American politics. 

In September, the British artist launched her Sweat tour alongside artist Troy Sivan. The high-energy event embraced many aspects of rave and club culture and embodied the “Brat” aesthetic. Through her branding and marketing, Charli redefined fan and community engagement. Her music and brand are so much more than others of similar calibers. It’s a state of mind, an attitude that fans can easily tap into.

She’s iconic, a little messy and empowered. Whoever says 2024 was not the year of Charli XCX has clearly been living under a rock. 

Courtesy of Setoxxx via Wikimedia https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charli_XCX_The_performing_artist.jpg (Monroe Huckaby)
Photo adapted from Endorso Agency
Ilona Maher

When I think of an impactful, strong woman, the first person that comes to mind is Ilona Maher. If you have been living under a rock, Ilona Maher is an American rugby player known for her athleticism, skills and vibrant personality.  Maher, born in Burlington, Vermont, plays as a forward for the United States women’s rugby team. Maher rose to the media’s attention during the 2020 Tokyo Olympics (2021), where her strategic on-field performances and creative social media presence made her a fan favorite. 

This year, again, Maher made a hit in the 2024 Summer Olympics. From July 26 to Aug. 11, Maher made several appearances on her social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, posting heartfelt, enjoyable life content as an Olympian competing in Paris. 

While most athletes aren’t seen posting actively online during the 2024 Olympics to prepare for their events, Maher balanced working hard as an athlete and being an influencer online. Throughout the games, Maher not only made hilariously outrageous videos of the conditions of the dorms in the Olympic Village and food but also made videos encouraging body positivity.

One of the most remarkable qualities of Ilona Maher is that she is unapologetically herself. She embodies not only athletic strength but also charisma and positivity. Although Maher has received numerous medals and awards in the past, she has truly earned the title of Best Person of 2024.

Photo adapted from Endorso Agency
Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons, Our Movie Guide
Jonathan Bailey

Jonathan Bailey, an English actor most known for his work in the series “Bridgerton,”  has seen a skyrocket in popularity over the past few months with the release of “Wicked,” with him being one of the main characters “Prince Fiyero.” 

Within this role, many people were surprised to find out that Bailey can both sing and dance perfectly while he performed his number in the movie “Dancing Through Life.” In addition, this captured the hearts of many watchers.

Bailey has also starred in many other musicals like “The York Realist,”  that I think have helped him greatly in his roles now with both singing and dancing. 

After the movie hit, fans started posting more snippets of Bailey to social media with him in the movie and interviews he has been in. This has caused people to wonder what other shows or movies he has starred in and explore his other works to see how incredible he really is. 

I am a big fan of his from his previous works so to see him now getting more attention is so amazing to see. I am also very excited to see what future movies or shows he plans to go into now that he has gained the attention he has now. 

Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons, Our Movie Guide
Dolly Parton during a live performance. She is dressed in her classic bling.
Courtesy of Flickr
Dolly Parton

National treasure, Dolly Parton, is absolutely deserving of person-of-the-year. Mrs. Parton has gotten 25 of her songs to reach No. 1 on the country music charts, uplifts her community, and continues to inspire.

One of Dolly’s most notable actions this year would be her generous donation to assist Hurricane Helene victims. Already an established philanthropist, she pledged to donate $1 million dollars to help those affected. Dolly is a Tennessee native, having been born and raised there. She has her hit business, Dollywood, in east Tennessee. Dollywood has provided financial stability and jobs for the area, as was her goal.

One of her 2024 achievements was the 2024 PEACE Through Music Award, which was given for her career’s invaluable effect globally. 

Beyond uplifting her community, she also works to spread joy in our homes, releasing a new cookbook called “Good Lookin’ Cookin’: A Year of Meals – A Lifetime of Family, Friends, and Food.” She continues to fill our stomachs and warm our hearts with this wonderful book.

I have the highest respect for Dolly Parton, who has had a monumental career and continues to build up her community. 

Dolly Parton during a live performance. She is dressed in her classic bling. Courtesy of Flickr
Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons - Agência Brasil Fotografias, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Katie_Ledecky_2016c.jpg
Katie Ledecky

The Paris 2024 Summer Olympics brought much anticipation and excitement, as well as pressure, for many American athletes who would be competing in its events. And while a majority of the world was enamored by the more popular gymnastics and track tournaments, I was thrilled to witness big moves being made within the swimming lanes. 

This year, Katie Ledecky won her eighth gold medal, becoming the most decorated female swimmer of all time, as well as the only swimmer to win six consecutive world titles in an individual event; in her case, it’s the 800 meter freestyle. Ledecky was also awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Joe Biden in May of 2024 because of her contribution to the Olympics.

After returning home from the Paris Olympic Games, Ledecky visited Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart in Maryland, an institution she once attended. There, she showed young students her medals and spoke about her experience as a three-time Olympian medalist. Ledecky finds great joy in sharing what she’s learned with the younger generation and is incredibly fulfilled when inspiring others to accomplish their goals.

Ledecky’s success as a swimmer is credited largely to her dedication, endurance and physical fitness. She wakes up at 4:00 each morning and spends six hours training every day. While lacking in significant physical advantages, such as wingspan or height, Ledecky does possess remarkable strength. Her ability to optimize every aspect of her movement, along with her work ethic and mental toughness, is what makes her worthy of a Best Of.

Photo Courtesy of Creative Commons – Agência Brasil Fotografias, https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Katie_Ledecky_2016c.jpg
(Photo Courtesy of Rosie Revolts via Wikimedia Commons)
Brittany Broski

Brittany Broski has made a massive impact on social media in recent years by influencing and entertaining the public with the silly and encouraging videos she produces. Broski has a variety of platforms she uses, including YouTube, podcasts, TikTok, Instagram and more. She can be seen interviewing celebrities at different events, such as movie premieres, award ceremonies and music festivals. I love to listen to her podcast and hear her rant about different aspects of her interests and life. 

I have felt so inspired by her because she puts a smile on my face even on a hard day. Her comedic and relatable personality just makes her so entertaining. Even though she has recently become super popular in the media, she does not let that affect her. Broski seems to love interacting with fans and brings out a side of herself that makes it feel like you are her best friend. 

She was a part of People Magazine’s Creators of the Year in 2024. She definitely deserves this award as she has grown so much in this industry. I think Broski has certainly brought so much happiness to the world we live in now. 

(Photo Courtesy of Rosie Revolts via Wikimedia Commons)
Stephen Nedoroscik
Courtesy of Mypurplelightsaber via Wikimedia Commons
Stephen Nedoroscik

If you watched the 2024 Paris Olympics, then chances are you saw Stephen Nedoroscik steal the show with a bronze medal win in the Pommel Horse and helping the men’s gymnastics team win the bronze for the USA for the first time in 16 years. He became well known for his nerdy glasses, his meme-worthy visualization prior to his event, and his joyful attitude. A recent Penn State graduate with a degree in electrical engineering, he appeals to the audience as a loveable nerd, something many people can relate to and appreciate. 

In case that wasn’t enough for him, Nedoroscik also competed in season 33 of the dancing reality TV show competition, Dancing with the Stars. Paired with pro Riley Arnold, Nedoroscik showcased his dancing skills with a variety of performances and ultimately placed fourth in the show’s season finale. Now, he is co-hosting the Dancing with the Stars 2025 Tour, where he will get to dance and connect with audiences even more. So, it’s safe to say that Nedoroscik had quite the year, and hopefully we’ll see him shine on tour this year and compete again in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. 

Stephen Nedoroscik Courtesy of Mypurplelightsaber via Wikimedia Commons
Paul Mescal
Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
Paul Mescal

Paul Mescal has had an amazing year in 2024, becoming one of the most talked about actors in Hollywood. One of his biggest achievements was his lead role in “Gladiator II” where he successfully proved his ability to be an action star. His performance got a lot of praise from critics, showing just how talented he is. Many people now recognize him as one of the best young actors in the industry, and he’s been nominated for several awards because of it. 

Soon after the release of “Gladiator II,” Mescal went on to host “Saturday Night Live” for the first time. This was a large accomplishment and his humorous performance showed his versatility as an actor. My favorite skit from his episode is “Gladiator II: The Musical.” This skit morphed the “Wicked” movie and “Gladiator II” into one movie musical trailer, yet again showing Mescal’s ability to thrive in any role.

While Mescal is going on to achieve big things I cannot help but reflect on his past role as Connell in “Normal People.” This show introduced me to Mescal and his work. His performance of the beloved character from Sally Rooney’s bestselling book was spot on. Mescal was able to bring a new side of Connell to the screen that was previously unseen in the book.

I say with confidence that this is only the beginning of big things for Mescal. His open personality and undoubtful talent are the perfect combination for stardom. Make sure to be on the lookout for his name in the media and the award shows.

Paul Mescal Courtesy of Wikimedia Commons
View Story Comments
More to Discover