We can’t discuss a pop culture summer without the idea of “BRAT” Summer. Based on Charli xcx’s newest album released on June 7th, “BRAT” immediately charted at #3 on Billboard. Some go as far as labeling this album as the “revival of pop,” “BRAT” has shaken the internet all over the world. Whether it’s wearing neon green, dancing on Tiktok to “Apple” from the album, or using BRAT filters, this pop album has taken the world by storm- and everyone’s acknowledging it. “Everyone” including Vice President Kamala Harris. Kamala Harris’s Headquarter’s account on “X” had a “BRAT” inspired background. Old and young, politicians and Plain Janes, “BRAT” has taken the world by storm.

Music wasn’t the only thing taking over social media this summer. Everywhere one went, a clip from “Love Island” would be playing. Things like TikTok FYP’s, trending sounds starting with “I’m looking for a guy in the villa,” and podcasts with the cast, social media were flooded with opinions and support regarding the new season. Three girls caught the attention of the media more than others. Jana Craig, Leah Kateb, and Serena Page, or more commonly known as “PPG”, received the most support for maintaining girlhood and positive friendships throughout the Villa. With all three of the women and their men being in the finale, their popularity was solidified even more. The season, without a doubt, was the most iconic “Love Island USA” season yet. From snakes to sappy love confessions, with no doubt, the season will go down in reality television history.

After years of Colleen Hoover fans begging for a movie, a film adaptation of her most popular book, “It Ends with Us,” hit theaters on August 9th. Starring Blake Lively as Lily Bloom and Justin Baldoni as Ryle Kincaid, the film was already gaining traction before its debut. Unfortunately, due to its high media coverage, the cast drama in and outside the movie took center stage rather than the moral of the story: raising awareness for Domestic Violence (DV). Blake Lively was torn apart by social media after countless interviews of her dismissing questions about the DV aspect of the movie. When asked what she would do if approached by a person who has suffered from DV and looked up to her character, she offensively joked about the hypothetical person being a stalker. With all the hate for Blake Lively, more people have started coming forward about her rude behavior within the industry in the past decade. A clip resurfaced of an interviewer congratulating Lively on her pregnancy, one she had announced before the interview. The interviewer politely says, “Congrats on your little bump,” referring to Lively’s pregnancy, which then Lively responds, “Congrats on your little bump,” supposedly referencing her weight. This comment was obviously unacceptable and continues to draw Lively in a negative light that tarnishes the movie overall. There is a constant conversation online on whether or not Lively is in the wrong or if her attitude ruins the movie. I say, separate the art from the artist and if you want great answers regarding the more important contents of this movie; watch Justin Baldoni’s interviews instead.

Starting with music and ending with music, finally, we will talk about the summer artist. Though her rise in popularity had been going on for months before, summer was the peak Chappell storm. From TikTok trends to sold-out concerts, everybody seems to have “HOT TO GO!” fever. After opening for pop star Olivia Rodrigo’s tour, Roan’s popularity skyrocketed with three of her songs leading the jump. “Casual,” a slow and sad ballad. inspired a trend where people would talk about their past relationships. “Good Luck Babe,” an upbeat song with devastating lyrics about internalized homophobia and denial, gained traction by resonating with many LGBTQ+ listeners. Finally, “HOT TO GO!” a pop anthem that has been flooding radio stations and playlists, took the cake popularity-wise. A TikTok dance started trending, with people spelling out H-O-T-T-O-G-O, arguably becoming our generation's new YMCA. Roan’s fame is only growing and a new album is currently in high demand.