2024 has been a whirlwind of breakthroughs, controversies, and letdowns, sparking passionate debates about what truly lived up to the hype. Reddit user TeIegraphAve opened the floodgates by asking: What has been the most overrated thing this year? The thread exploded with responses, shedding light on everything from pop culture to politics. Here’s a roundup of 40 things people declared overrated in 2024.
Pop Culture Phenomena
- Olympic Breakdancing
Many felt Rachael “Raygun” Gunn’s much-anticipated performance was overhyped, calling the event more “gimmicky than groundbreaking.” - The Barbie Sequel
Despite high expectations, audiences deemed the sequel a weak attempt to cash in on nostalgia. - AI-Generated Music Albums
While innovative, some argued these lacked the soul of human artistry. - The Metaverse’s Latest Updates
Still failing to deliver the promised revolution in how we connect online.
Food and Dining Trends
- Butter Boards
Aesthetic, yes—but impractical and messy for most people. - $20 Vegan Milkshakes
Eco-friendly? Sure. Worth the price? Not so much, according to critics. - Lab-Grown Meat
While a scientific marvel, skeptics questioned its taste and exorbitant cost.
Social Media Movements
- BeReal 2.0
The “authentic” app update reportedly felt anything but authentic. - Viral TikTok Diets
Critics pointed out how quickly these trends fade, often leaving confusion in their wake.
TV Shows and Movies
- “The Untold Legacy of Sherlock” on Netflix
Dubbed “nothing we haven’t seen before.” - Reboot of “The Office”
“Some classics should just be left untouched,” lamented fans.
Tech Innovations
- Foldable Smartphones
Cool in theory, but still not as practical as their rigid counterparts. - AI Co-Authors
While fun to experiment with, many readers said AI-driven books felt formulaic and shallow.
Celebrity Headlines
- Luigi Mangione’s Trial
Critics said the sensationalized media coverage distracted from more pressing issues. - Zendaya and Tom Holland’s Public Feud
Many fans expressed fatigue over what felt like contrived drama.
Lifestyle and Wellness Trends
- Micro-Dosing Psychedelics
Once touted as life-changing, some said the benefits were overstated. - Cold Plunge Therapy
Effective? Maybe. Over-glorified? Definitely.
Music Industry Picks
- AI-Generated Concerts
While visually stunning, fans said these lacked the emotional connection of live performers. - The Taylor Swift & Drake Collab Album
Not bad, just not the masterpiece everyone expected.
Fashion Statements
- Cargo Skirts
A divisive trend that had fashion lovers either raving or cringing. - Overpriced “Sustainable” Brands
Critics questioned how “sustainable” $400 sweatshirts really are.
Miscellaneous Overrated Picks
- Hyperloop Trials
“Still more hype than reality,” said one commenter. - 2024 Presidential Campaign Slogans
Lacked originality and inspiration, according to many voters. - VR Dating Apps
Promising to revolutionize romance, but users felt it lacked genuine human connection.
What’s Actually Underrated?
Some users flipped the script, naming things they believed deserved more attention, like community gardens, affordable housing initiatives, and mental health awareness campaigns.
