As we bid farewell to another year, our online searches become a digital time capsule, capturing the essence of life in 2025. But here's where it gets fascinating: Google's 2026 Year in Search trend report has just dropped, and it's a treasure trove of insights into what captivated the world's attention. From breakout stars to unexpected trends, this report is a window into our collective curiosity. And this is the part most people miss—it's not just about what's popular; it's about the stories behind the spikes in search traffic.
Released on Thursday, Google's annual report highlights the queries that saw the most significant and sustained increases in 2025. Among the top trends were first-time Oscar winner Mikey Madison, whose performance left an indelible mark on audiences, and Taylor Swift’s latest hit, which undoubtedly became an earworm for millions. Interestingly, book recommendations for fans of The Hunting Wives also made the list, proving that literary cravings are as alive as ever in the digital age.
But here's where it gets controversial: While some trends, like the fascination with The Hunting Wives, seem straightforward, others raise questions. For instance, why did searches for 'Adolescence' and 'Weapons' spike? Are these reflections of societal concerns, or merely tied to specific media releases? We’ll dive into that later.
Top Trending Entertainment Searches on Google in 2025
Global Actors
Mikey Madison, Lewis Pullman, Isabela Merced, Song Ji Woo, Kaitlyn Dever, Charlie Hunnam, Bella Ramsey, Gavin Casalegno, Emma Myers, and Walton Goggins dominated global searches. These actors not only starred in major projects but also became household names, with their performances resonating across cultures.
U.S. Actors
In the U.S., Pedro Pascal, Malachi Barton, Walton Goggins, Pamela Anderson, Charlie Sheen, Eric Dane, Mikey Madison, Aubrey Plaza, Adam Sandler, and Justin Baldoni topped the charts. Justin Baldoni, in particular, saw a surge in interest, possibly tied to his role in a critically acclaimed series or film.
Celebrity Weddings
Love was in the air in 2025, with high-profile weddings capturing the public's imagination. From Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez to Charli XCX and George Daniel, these unions sparked joy and curiosity. Notably, Jalen Hurts and Bryonna Burrows’ wedding became a trending topic, blending sports and romance in a way that captivated fans.
Explained
This section of the report delves into searches for explanations of various topics, including The Woman in the Yard, Sinners, Weapons, Adolescence, Sirens, House of Dynamite, Straw, The Hunting Wives, We Were Liars, and Wayward. These queries suggest a growing appetite for understanding complex narratives and themes, whether in books, films, or real-life issues.
K-Drama
Korean dramas continued their global takeover, with S Line, Head over Heels, Study Group, Would You Marry Me?, Beyond the Bar, Buried Hearts, The Nice Guy, Friendly Rivalry, Tastefully Yours, and The First Night with the Duke trending. These shows not only entertained but also introduced audiences to new cultural perspectives.
Books Like…
For book lovers, 2025 was a year of discovery. Searches for books similar to KPop Demon Hunters, Shield of Sparrows, Kiss of the Basilisk, Alchemised, The Hunting Wives, The Let Them Theory, Broken Country, Quicksilver, Sunrise on the Reaping, and Great Big Beautiful Life surged. This trend highlights the enduring power of storytelling and the community’s desire to find the next great read.
Music Videos
In the music world, videos like Jessie Murph’s ‘1965,’ Taylor Swift’s ‘The Fate of Ophelia,’ Sabrina Carpenter’s ‘Manchild’ and ‘Tears,’ Riley Green’s ‘Worst Way,’ Katseye’s ‘Gnarly’ and ‘Gabriela,’ Skrilla’s ‘Doot Doot (6 7),’ NF’s ‘FEAR,’ and Alex Warren’s ‘Ordinary’ dominated searches. These tracks not only topped charts but also became cultural phenomena, with fans dissecting every lyric and frame.
Now, let’s revisit the controversy: The spikes in searches for terms like 'Weapons' and 'Adolescence' are particularly intriguing. Could these be tied to specific films or books, or do they reflect deeper societal concerns? For example, The Hunting Wives explores themes of ambition and morality—could its popularity indicate a broader interest in these topics? What do you think? Are these trends merely entertainment-driven, or do they mirror real-world issues? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
