As we reflect on the past four years since the onset of the pandemic in 2020, it's astonishing to look back at the events that occurred just before and during the early stages of the global crisis. In the weeks leading up to the pandemic, the world witnessed a series of surprising occurrences that now feel like distant memories.
Just before the world went into lockdown, the entertainment industry was abuzz with events such as the joint Super Bowl halftime show featuring Shakira and Jennifer Lopez. Additionally, viral sensations like Charlotte Awbery, known for her subway singing, captured the public's attention.
Popular culture was dominated by phenomena like the release of 'Tiger King' and the debut of 'Love Is Blind.' The music scene was marked by hits like 'Dance Monkey' by Tones and I, 'Someone You Loved' by Lewis Capaldi, and 'Good As Hell' by Lizzo.
Major award ceremonies, including the Grammys, saw artists like Lil Nas X and Billie Eilish taking home numerous accolades. Meanwhile, celebrity relationships were in the spotlight, with figures like Jennifer Lopez, Ben Affleck, and A-Rod making headlines.
Political events, such as the Democratic nomination race and the announcement of Megxit, added to the whirlwind of news preceding the pandemic. Terms like 'social distancing,' 'super spreader,' and 'flattening the curve' were not yet part of everyday vocabulary.
However, as the world came to a standstill, panic buying, celebrity COVID-19 diagnoses, and social media reactions became the new norm. From Tom Hanks being one of the first celebrities to contract the virus to public figures advocating for safety measures, the early days of the pandemic were marked by uncertainty and adaptation.
As we navigate the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic, it's essential to remember the lessons learned and the resilience shown by individuals and communities worldwide. Let's continue to prioritize safety, follow guidelines, and support one another as we move forward together.
