Giphy's Most Viewed GIFs of 2020 Reflect Global Emotions

By GIFMakes Team | June 9, 2025 | Read Time: 6 minutes

The year 2020 was marked by unprecedented global events that significantly impacted collective emotions and online behavior. As a platform that serves as a barometer for internet culture, Giphy's list of the most viewed GIFs of that year offered a unique glimpse into the shared feelings and reactions of people around the world. These popular animations became a visual shorthand for navigating a challenging and often uncertain time.

A Reflection of Shared Experiences

The top GIFs of 2020 weren't just random popular animations; they often reflected the dominant emotions and experiences of the year. This included GIFs expressing:

• Anxiety and Stress: Mirroring the widespread uncertainty and challenges faced globally.
• Solidarity and Support: Highlighting moments of unity and mutual encouragement.
• Humor and Escapism: Providing much-needed levity and distraction during difficult times.
• Frustration and Exhaustion: Capturing the prolonged nature of the year's challenges.

GIFs as Emotional Outlets

In a year where face-to-face interactions were limited for many, GIFs served as important emotional outlets. They allowed people to express complex feelings quickly and effectively in digital conversations. A single GIF could communicate a sense of overwhelm, a moment of hope, or a shared understanding of the absurdity of the situation.

The Power of Visual Communication in Times of Crisis

The popularity of these emotionally resonant GIFs in 2020 underscored the power of visual communication in times of crisis. When words felt insufficient, animated images provided a way to connect with others on an emotional level, fostering a sense of shared experience and understanding across geographical boundaries.

Looking Back and Understanding Through GIFs

Analyzing the most viewed GIFs of a particular year, like 2020, offers valuable insights into the collective consciousness and the major events that shaped it. They serve as a visual archive of shared emotions and cultural responses, providing a unique perspective on history as it unfolded online.