InPublishing: Readly reveals top news moments of 2024

Readly says a poll of 2,000 adults revealed the topics likely to come up around the Christmas dinner table this year which include teen Luke Littler’s darts win and blind comedian Chris McCausland storming the dancefloor on Strictly Come Dancing.

The moment Donald Trump was shot in the ear, the popularity of Baby Reindeer on Netflix and the disastrous Willy Wonka experience were also among the top 25 list, added Readly.

It emerged that 19 percent admit discussions or arguments regularly occur in the family during the Christmas dinner, with 15 percent admitting some topics are strictly ‘off-limits’.

Chris Couchman, head of content at Readly digital magazine and newspaper app which commissioned the research, said: “Another year coming to an end and what a year it’s been. The highs and lows of 2024 have given us so much to reflect on, from unexpected triumphs to shocking controversies.

"As families gather this Christmas, it's inevitable that these defining moments will spark passionate debates and laughter alike. It’s a reminder of how the events of a single year can bring people together, even in disagreement.”

Readly says the study also found politics (31 percent), family matters (25 percent) and religion (15 percent) are the topics most likely to lead to arguments during the Christmas holidays. Finances (15 percent) and relationships (11 percent) also ranked highly.

But whilst 26 per cent try to calm the situation, 24 per cent attempt to change the subject to avoid festive disagreements.

It also emerged 27 per cent can’t quite believe some of the things that have happened this year, with the death of One Direction star Liam Payne, in Argentina, the most shocking for 37 per cent.

A fifth have shared a major event or cultural phenomenon on social media this year. While 24 per cent claim an event has caused them to stop what they’re doing and message someone to talk to them about it.

Two thirds (65 percent) like to keep up to date with current events, with sports the most popular news topic for 35 percent. Others in the poll , via OnePoll for Readly, enjoy reading or hearing about politics (31 percent), entertainment (26 percent), travel (21 percent) and health (21 percent).

News broadcasts on TV were found to be the place that 52 percent go to get their news and information from. Whilst 51 percent get their news from digital magazines and newspapers, 38 percent tune into the radio and 29 per cent simply rely on word of mouth.

Chris Couchman from Readly added: “As we close the chapter on 2024, the power of storytelling, whether shocking, inspiring, or divisive and the need for news from trusted, verified sources, has never been more evident.

“In an age where information travels faster than ever, it’s the things we read about and these shared experiences that keep us connected and curious with the world around us and sparks good conversation this Christmas time and beyond.”

Readly reveals the biggest talking points of 2024 are as follows: