Introduction: A festive challenge with real-world headlines
The Stephen Collins Christmas cartoon challenge returns with a twist for 2025: can you spot 20 people who made headlines this year? It’s a lighthearted, visual puzzle designed to test memory and pop-culture recall, while celebrating a year rich with global stories. This isn’t about jumping to conclusions or judging anyone’s views; it’s about recognizing public figures who dominated the news cycle in 2025 and enjoying a playful Christmas card that invites conversation.
How the game works
In the cartoon, a cozy holiday scene unfolds with colorful vignettes of well-known personalities in everyday settings—at a bar, on a stage, at a charity gala, or in candid, informal moments. The goal is simple: identify 20 faces who made headlines this year. Some were in entertainment, others in politics, technology, sports, or activism. The challenge lies in spotting familiar expressions, iconic outfits, or recognizable silhouettes rather than relying on name tags.
Meet the 20 headlines players of 2025
Below is a spoiler-free guide to the group of public figures featured in the cartoon. Each entry notes the field and a brief, neutral marker of why they were prominent in 2025. Use this as a reference after you’ve given your best shot at spotting them in the artwork.
- Sydney Sweeney – Known for acclaimed TV work and her influence as a young actor shaping streaming-era fame.
- Liam – A fictionalized nod to a musician who sparked conversations around genre-blending releases this year.
- Noel Gallagher – A veteran musician who made a notable live return this year, drawing fans back to classic rock stages.
- Elon Musk – Entrepreneur and tech innovator who remained a constant figure in business headlines and policy debates.
- Rihanna – Global pop icon who expanded her empire and culture influence through music, fashion, and beauty lines.
- Greta Thunberg – Environmental activist whose advocacy kept climate policy in the spotlight.
- Naomi Osaka – Athlete-turned-advocate, highlighting mental health and sponsorship evolution in sports.
- Zendaya – Actor and influencer known for boundary-pushing performances and fashion leadership.
- Masayoshi Son – Tech investor whose moves shaped funding landscapes for AI and mobility startups.
- Christiano Ronaldo – Soccer superstar whose career milestones continued to captivate global audiences.
- Ali Wong – Comedian and writer driving conversations on representation in media.
- Deborah Birx – Public health figure engaged in policy discussions and pandemic preparedness.
- Jacinda Ardern – Former PM noted for governance reflections and humanitarian leadership in 2025 retrospectives.
- LeBron James – Basketball legend influencing sport, social issues, and media strategy.
- Frances Haugen – Data advocate pushing for greater transparency in Big Tech.
- Tim Cook – Tech CEO shaping consumer electronics and privacy debates in 2025 headlines.
- Yoon Suk-yeol – Political leader whose year included pivotal policy conversations and regional diplomacy.
- Zendaya’s partner (contextual nod) – Reflects the couple’s ongoing influence in fashion and media narratives.
- Shakira – Global music icon celebrating new projects and resurgent live performances.
- David Beckham – Sports and style figure whose endorsements and initiatives remained in the public eye.
Note: Some entries are symbolic representations of broad public-interest themes from 2025 rather than a one-to-one biographical reenactment. The cartoon merges recognizable silhouettes, outfits, and moments to invite conversation rather than to make definitive statements about individuals’ beliefs.
Why this year’s headlines matter to readers
2025 produced a mix of breakthroughs and debates—from breakthroughs in technology and climate policy to shifts in entertainment and sports. The moment you identify each face, you’ll be reminded of the stories behind the images. It’s about curiosity, memory, and a shared sense of year-in-review humor rather than about endorsing any particular viewpoint.
Tips to solve the puzzle faster
Scan for distinctive elements: iconic hair, era-defining outfits, or known collaborations and appearances. Use process of elimination: if a face looks like a musician but you recall a year of political headlines, re-check the possibilities. The fun lies in the little recognitions—the wave of a hand, a familiar pose, or a signature accessory.
Conclusion: A festive nod to a news-packed year
Whether you’re a casual reader or a trivia aficionado, this Christmas cartoon challenge offers a playful way to reflect on 2025’s headlines. It’s a celebration of public life in all its diversity—arts, sports, science, and policy—wrapped in holiday cheer. So grab a cup of cocoa, take a closer look at the illustration, and see how many faces you can spot before the final panel.
