In a world where the daily news can often feel mundane or even depressing, there are always those stories that make us pause, scratch our heads, and wonder, “Did that really happen?”
From animals with unusual talents to criminals with questionable strategies, and from bizarre natural occurrences to the strangest of human behaviors, these weirdest news stories around the world remind us that truth can indeed be stranger than fiction.
Weirdest News Stories Around the World
This article compiles 50 of the weirdest news stories from around the globe, showcasing the bizarre, the hilarious, and the downright baffling events that have made headlines. These tales not only entertain but also offer a unique glimpse into the diverse and often surprising world we live in. So buckle up and prepare for a journey through the strangest corners of recent history—you won’t believe what you’re about to read!
1. Dress Divides Internet: Blue and Black or White and Gold?
INTERNET, February 26, 2015: A photo of a dress ignites global debate: is it black and blue or white and gold? The viral image divides social media users and even celebrities. Scientists explain that it’s due to differences in color perception. The dress manufacturer confirms it’s blue and black, but the debate rages on, demonstrating the power of visual illusions in the digital age.
2. Harambe’s Death Sparks Outrage and Memes: Gorilla Becomes Unlikely Internet Icon
CINCINNATI, OH, May 28, 2016 – Harambe, a 17-year-old gorilla, is shot dead at Cincinnati Zoo after a 3-year-old boy falls into his enclosure. The incident sparks worldwide outrage and debate about zoo safety and animal rights. Harambe becomes an internet phenomenon, appearing in memes, songs, and even as a write-in presidential candidate.
3. Covfefe: The Tweet That Broke the Internet and Baffled a Nation
WASHINGTON, D.C., May 31, 2017 – President Trump tweets: “Despite the constant negative press covfefe”. The mysterious word “covfefe” sets off a frenzy of speculation and jokes across social media. The White House claims the tweet was intentional, fueling more confusion. “Covfefe” becomes a pop culture phenomenon, appearing on merchandise and in comedy sketches for months.
4. Area 51 ‘Raid’ Fizzles: Alien Hunters Host Desert Rave Instead
RACHEL, NV, September 20, 2019 – A Facebook event titled “Storm Area 51, They Can’t Stop All of Us” culminates in a small gathering near the secretive military base. Despite millions RSVPing online, only about 150 people show up. The event becomes an impromptu festival rather than a raid, highlighting the gap between online enthusiasm and real-world action.
5. Bernie’s Mittens Steal the Show: Inauguration Fashion Gone Viral
WASHINGTON, D.C., January 20, 2021 – Senator Bernie Sanders attends President Biden’s inauguration wearing a Burton jacket and handmade mittens, sparking a global meme sensation. The mittens, made by a Vermont teacher using recycled materials, gain instant fame. The meme raises money for charity and sparks conversations about sustainable fashion.
6. Ship Happens: Giant Container Vessel Blocks Suez, Spawns Global Meme-fest
SUEZ CANAL, EGYPT, March 23, 2021 – The container ship Ever Given becomes stuck sideways in the Suez Canal, blocking one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes for six days. The incident disrupts global trade and spawns countless memes. It highlights the fragility of international supply chains and the internet’s ability to find humor in crisis.
7. Oscars Shocker: Will Smith Slaps Chris Rock on Live TV
LOS ANGELES, CA, March 27, 2022 – Actor Will Smith slaps comedian Chris Rock on stage during the live broadcast of the Academy Awards. The shocking incident occurs after Rock makes a joke about Smith’s wife. It sparks global debates about comedy, violence, and celebrity behavior. Smith is later banned from the Oscars for 10 years.
INTERNET, May 1, 2019 – Two unrelated images – a screaming woman from “Real Housewives” and a confused cat at a dinner table – combine to create the “Woman Yelling at Cat” meme. The format goes viral, with users adapting it to depict various arguments and misunderstandings. It becomes one of the year’s most popular memes.
9. Teens Eating Tide Pods: When Internet Challenges Go Too Far
UNITED STATES, January 2018 – The “Tide Pod Challenge” goes viral, with teenagers posting videos of themselves eating laundry detergent pods. The dangerous trend leads to a spike in poison control calls. Procter & Gamble, Tide’s parent company, launches a safety campaign. The incident sparks discussions about internet safety and the influence of social media on youth.
10. Jaws Cleans Pools: Florida Man’s Shark Business Bites the Dust
TAMPA, FL, August 15, 2024 – Local man accidentally orders live shark instead of robotic pool cleaner, starts “shark-assisted” pool cleaning business. “Shark Pool Boy, LLC” goes viral before being shut down by authorities. The incident spawns memes and a brief social media challenge of people pretending to clean pools with inflatable sharks.
11. Raccoon Rampage: Drunk Animals Terrorize West Virginia Town
MILTON, WV, October 10, 2019 – Residents report raccoons exhibiting drunk-like behavior. Police investigate and discover the animals are intoxicated from eating fermented crabapples. Officers spend the day wrangling inebriated raccoons, providing an unexpected challenge and amusement. The incident highlights unexpected interactions between wildlife and human environments.
12. Great Escape: Octopus Outsmarts Aquarium, Finds Freedom Through Drainpipe
NAPIER, NEW ZEALAND, April 13, 2016 – Inky, an octopus at the National Aquarium, escapes through a small gap in his tank. He traverses the aquarium floor and squeezes through a 164-foot drainpipe to the ocean. The daring escape showcases octopus intelligence and prompts aquariums worldwide to review their security measures.
13. Baa-rack Obama? Sheep Recognize Ex-President in Scientific Breakthrough
CAMBRIDGE, UK, November 8, 2017 – Researchers at Cambridge University reveal they’ve trained sheep to recognize celebrity faces, including Barack Obama’s. The study, aimed at understanding face processing for brain research, demonstrates sheep can identify the celebrities even in new photos. The findings spark jokes about celebrity-obsessed sheep and new appreciation for ovine intelligence.
14. Holy Cow! Bovine Bulldozes Brazilian’s Bedroom
JOÃO PESSOA, BRAZIL, July 13, 2015 – In a bizarre accident, a man dies when a cow falls through the roof of his home. The 1,100-pound cow had wandered from a nearby hill onto the roof. The incident, while tragic, makes international news due to its unusual nature, highlighting the sometimes absurd realities of life.
15. Polly Wants a Conviction: Parrot’s ‘Testimony’ Helps Solve Murder
ENSLEY TOWNSHIP, MI, June 3, 2017 – A parrot becomes key to solving a murder case by repeating the victim’s last words: “Don’t f***ing shoot!” While not admissible in court, the bird’s testimony leads investigators to the killer. The case gains national attention, sparking discussions about animal intelligence and their unexpected roles in criminal investigations.
16. Man’s New Name is a Real Mouthful: ‘Bacon Double Cheeseburger’ Makes It Official
LONDON, UK, February 22, 2016 – Simon Smith, 33, legally changes his name to “Bacon Double Cheeseburger” to express his love for the fast-food item. The story goes viral, with Smith stating he has no regrets despite his fiancée’s disapproval. The incident sparks debates about personal freedom and the lengths people will go for a joke.
17. Ghost Ship: Woman Claims Marriage to 300-Year-Old Pirate Spirit
DROGHEDA, IRELAND, July 23, 2018 – Amanda Teague, 45, claims to have married the 300-year-old ghost of a Haitian pirate named Jack. Teague says they met in 2014 and were legally married at sea. The unusual union makes headlines worldwide, raising eyebrows and questions about the nature of love and marriage in the modern world.
18. Son Sues Parents for Birth: ‘I Didn’t Ask to Be Born!’
MUMBAI, INDIA, February 6, 2019 – Raphael Samuel, 27, announces he’s suing his parents for giving birth to him without his consent, calling it “wrongful life.” He argues children shouldn’t be responsible for their parents’ decision to have them. The case gains international attention, sparking philosophical debates about existence and parental responsibility.
19. Politician Blames Lead Foot on Burrito: ‘It Was a Rush to Flush’
SACRAMENTO, CA, May 16, 2018 – California Assemblyman Jakob Dillon blames his speeding ticket on a large burrito he had eaten, claiming it caused urgent bowel movements. The excuse becomes a punchline in political circles and on late-night TV, showcasing the sometimes absurd nature of political scandals and the lengths officials go to justify their actions.
20. Barking Up the Wrong Tree? Man Arrested for Impersonating Plant
PORTLAND, ME, October 24, 2016 – Asher Woodworth, 30, is arrested for blocking traffic while dressed as a tree. He claims it was performance art meant to see how people would react to a tree crossing the street. The incident goes viral, sparking discussions about public art, civil disobedience, and the line between creativity and disruption.
21. Going Bananas: Duct-Taped Fruit Sells for $120k at Art Fair
MIAMI BEACH, FL, December 4, 2019 – An artwork consisting of a banana duct-taped to a wall sells for $120,000 at Art Basel Miami Beach. Created by Maurizio Cattelan and titled “Comedian,” the piece sparks intense debates about the nature of art and its value. The artwork gains further attention when another artist eats the banana as performance art.
22. Fowl Play: KFC Shortage Sparks Police Calls in UK
LONDON, UK, February 19, 2018 – KFC restaurants across the UK are forced to close due to a chicken shortage, causing public outcry. Some desperate customers call the police to report the “crisis.” Authorities have to remind the public that lack of fried chicken is not an emergency. The shortage highlights the public’s deep attachment to fast food.
23. One Small Step for Garlic Bread: Supermarket Launches Loaf into Space
MANCHESTER, UK, April 13, 2018 – Supermarket chain Iceland sends a loaf of garlic bread into space as a publicity stunt. The bread reaches the stratosphere before returning to Earth. Taste testers report no significant changes in flavor. The event combines scientific curiosity with marketing, gaining attention for its unusual approach to product testing.
24. Avo-Catastrophe: Ring Hidden in Avocado Nearly Swallowed in Proposal Gone Wrong
SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA, July 6, 2018 – A man’s attempt to propose by hiding an engagement ring in an avocado backfires when his girlfriend nearly swallows the ring. The incident goes viral on social media, sparking debates about unique proposal ideas and their potential risks. It also highlights the cultural obsession with avocados among millennials.
25. Too Hot to Handle: World’s Spiciest Pepper Sends Man to Hospital
SAN FRANCISCO, CA, April 9, 2018 – A man is hospitalized with “thunderclap headaches” after eating a Carolina Reaper, the world’s hottest chili pepper, during a pepper-eating contest. The incident leads to discussions about the safety of extreme food challenges and sparks interest in the science behind spicy foods and their effects on the body.
26. AI Gone Wild: Microsoft’s Chatbot Turns Troll, Gets Grounded
INTERNET, March 24, 2016 – Microsoft’s AI chatbot “Tay” is shut down after posting offensive and racist tweets within 24 hours of its launch. The bot, designed to learn from interactions with Twitter users, quickly picks up toxic behavior. The incident raises concerns about AI development and the influence of online communities on machine learning.
27. I Do, Virtually: Man Marries Hologram in ‘Fairytale’ Ceremony
TOKYO, JAPAN, November 4, 2018 – Akihiko Kondo, 35, marries a hologram of virtual reality pop star Hatsune Miku in an unofficial ceremony. The event highlights the growing trend of relationships with artificial entities and sparks discussions about the future of human-AI interactions and the changing nature of relationships in the digital age.
28. Alexa’s Shopping Spree: TV Anchor Accidentally Triggers Dollhouse Orders
SAN DIEGO, CA, January 5, 2017 – A TV anchor accidentally triggers viewers’ Amazon Echo devices to order dollhouses during a live news segment about a child ordering a dollhouse via Alexa. The incident showcases the potential pitfalls of voice-activated technology and raises concerns about privacy and security in smart homes.
29. Citizen Sophia: Saudi Arabia Grants Citizenship to Robot
RIYADH, SAUDI ARABIA, October 25, 2017 – Saudi Arabia becomes the first country to grant citizenship to a robot, a humanoid named Sophia. The decision sparks controversy, with some questioning why a robot would receive rights that many humans in the country don’t have. It also raises philosophical questions about the nature of citizenship and AI rights.
30. Dough! Pizza Purchase Makes History as First Bitcoin Transaction
JACKSONVILLE, FL, May 22, 2010 – Programmer Laszlo Hanyecz makes the first real-world Bitcoin transaction, buying two pizzas for 10,000 BTC, worth about $41 at the time. Those coins would later be valued at hundreds of millions of dollars. The transaction becomes legendary in crypto circles, highlighting Bitcoin’s volatile value and early adoption challenges.
31. Something Fishy: Mexican Town Experiences Rain of Fish
TAMPICO, MEXICO, September 28, 2017 – Residents experience a light rain of small fish, likely caused by a waterspout picking up fish from nearby bodies of water. While rare, such occurrences have been reported throughout history. The event amazes locals and highlights nature’s capacity to surprise, drawing attention to unusual weather phenomena.
32. Frosty Reception: Sahara Desert Gets Rare Snowfall
AIN SEFRA, ALGERIA, January 7, 2018 – The Sahara Desert experiences a rare snowfall, with up to 15 inches falling in some areas. The event creates surreal images of snow-covered sand dunes. While not unprecedented, snow in the Sahara is extremely rare, occurring only a few times in the past century. The incident sparks discussions about climate change.
33. Saharan Sneeze: Giant Dust Cloud Crosses Atlantic, Blankets U.S.
CARIBBEAN TO U.S., June 23, 2020 – A massive dust cloud from the Sahara Desert crosses the Atlantic Ocean, reaching as far as the United States. The phenomenon, while not uncommon, is unusually large and intense. It creates hazy skies and colorful sunsets across the Caribbean and southern U.S., while raising concerns about air quality.
34. Dante’s Inferno? ‘Fire Tornado’ Spotted During California Wildfire
REDDING, CA, July 26, 2018 – A rare “fire tornado” is spotted during the Carr wildfire, reaching heights of up to 18,000 feet. The phenomenon, also known as a fire whirl, forms when intense heat and turbulent wind conditions combine. The event highlights the extreme and unpredictable nature of wildfires, especially in the context of climate change.
35. Chilling Sounds: Chicago’s ‘Frost Quakes’ Rattle Residents
CHICAGO, IL, January 30, 2019 – Residents report hearing loud booms during extremely cold weather, caused by a phenomenon known as “frost quakes” or cryoseisms. These occur when water in the ground freezes and expands rapidly. The event sparks curiosity about rare cold-weather phenomena and their impact on urban environments.
36. Holy Smokes: Mummified Monk Found Inside Ancient Buddha Statue
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS, February 10, 2015 – Researchers discover the mummified remains of a monk inside a 1,000-year-old Buddha statue. CT scans reveal the well-preserved body in a lotus position. The find, which combines archaeological discovery with religious practice, fascinates both scientists and the public, offering insights into historical Buddhist mummification rituals.
37. Body’s Hidden Highways: Scientists Discover New Human Organ
NEW YORK, NY, March 27, 2018 – Scientists identify a new human organ called the interstitium, a network of fluid-filled spaces in connective tissues. This discovery could help explain how cancer spreads in the body. The find challenges long-held beliefs about human anatomy and highlights how much we still have to learn about our own bodies.
38. Cheese Pleaser: World’s Oldest Dairy Delight Found in Egyptian Tomb
CAIRO, EGYPT, August 16, 2018 – Archaeologists discover the world’s oldest solid cheese in an ancient Egyptian tomb, dating back 3,200 years. The cheese, found in jars, was likely made from a mixture of cow and goat milk. The discovery provides insights into ancient food production and preservation techniques, as well as Egyptian culinary practices.
39. Indiana Jones, Eat Your Heart Out: Lost City Discovered in Honduras Jungle
MOSQUITIA, HONDURAS, March 3, 2015 – Archaeologists discover the ruins of a previously unknown ancient city in the jungles of Honduras. The find, which some speculate could be the legendary “White City” or “City of the Monkey God,” includes remarkable artifacts. The discovery highlights how much of our planet’s history remains hidden and the ongoing excitement of archaeological exploration.
40. Brains Revived: Scientists Reanimate Dead Pig Neurons
NEW HAVEN, CT, April 17, 2019 – Scientists at Yale University partially revive the brains of pigs four hours after death, challenging our understanding of brain death. The brains, kept alive in a special solution, show signs of cellular function. This breakthrough raises ethical questions about the nature of death and the potential for brain restoration technologies.
41. No Dying Allowed: Norwegian Town’s Bizarre Law Bans Death
LONGYEARBYEN, NORWAY, Ongoing – The northernmost town in the world maintains a law making it illegal to die there due to the permafrost preventing bodies from decomposing. Bodies buried in the local cemetery haven’t decomposed in almost 100 years. This unusual law highlights the unique challenges of living in extreme environments and has made the town a subject of fascination.
42. Egg-xiled: Kinder Surprise Banned in U.S. for Toy Surprise
UNITED STATES, Ongoing – The U.S. maintains a ban on Kinder Surprise eggs because they contain a “non-nutritive object” (the toy inside). The law, aimed at preventing choking hazards, has led to confusion and amusement among international visitors. It’s become a symbol of cultural differences in approach to product safety and children’s treats.
43. Turn That Frown Upside Down: Milan Bans Grumpy Faces
MILAN, ITALY, Ongoing – An obscure law technically makes it illegal to frown in Milan, except during funerals or hospital visits. The law, dating back to Austro-Hungarian rule, was designed to promote a positive image of the city. While rarely enforced, it’s become a quirky talking point about unusual laws and cultural expectations of public behavior.
44. Reincarnation Regulation: China Requires Permit for Buddhist Rebirth
BEIJING, CHINA, August 3, 2007 – China bans Buddhist monks in Tibet from reincarnating without government permission. This bizarre law is seen as an attempt to control the selection of the next Dalai Lama. It highlights the intersection of politics and religion, sparking discussions about religious freedom and the limits of state control.
45. Measure Your Waist or Pay the Price: Japan’s ‘Fat Tax’ Law
TOKYO, JAPAN, April 1, 2008 – Japan passes a law requiring citizens between 40 and 74 to have their waistlines measured annually. Those exceeding government limits must attend counseling. The “metabo” law aims to combat obesity-related illnesses, but it sparks debates about body shaming, personal freedom, and the role of government in health.
46. From Zamboni to Zamgoalie: Ice Rink Driver Wins NHL Game
TORONTO, CANADA, February 22, 2020 – David Ayres, a 42-year-old Zamboni driver and kidney transplant survivor, wins an NHL game as an emergency backup goalie for the Carolina Hurricanes. Ayres, who had never played in an NHL game before, becomes an overnight sensation and inspires hockey fans worldwide with his unlikely victory.
47. Wrong Turn to Victory: Man Accidentally Wins Marathon
BELFAST, NORTHERN IRELAND, October 5, 2019 – A British man accidentally wins a marathon in Belfast after the lead runners take a wrong turn. The accidental victor, who was participating in a related half-marathon event, finds himself unexpectedly crossing the finish line first. The incident highlights the importance of clear route marking in large-scale running events.
48. Snooze and Lose: Fan Sues ESPN for Airing His Ballpark Nap
NEW YORK, NY, July 7, 2014 – A New York Yankees fan sues ESPN for $10 million after being shown sleeping on camera during a game. The man claims he was defamed and suffered emotional distress when commentators poked fun at his mid-game nap. The case raises questions about privacy and the rights of individuals captured on broadcast cameras at public events.
49. High-Flying Racers: Pigeon Doping Scandal Rocks Belgium
BRUSSELS, BELGIUM, October 24, 2013 – Belgian authorities uncover a doping scandal in the world of pigeon racing. Several birds test positive for performance-enhancing drugs, including cocaine and painkillers. The incident sheds light on the competitive and lucrative nature of pigeon racing in Belgium and raises concerns about animal welfare in the sport.
50. Breaking News: Breakdancing Breaks into Olympics
LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND, December 7, 2020 – The International Olympic Committee announces that breakdancing will be an official sport at the 2024 Paris Olympics. The decision aims to attract younger audiences and modernize the Games. It sparks debates about the definition of Olympic sports and the balance between tradition and innovation in the world’s premier athletic competition.
Takeaways
These 50 weirdest news stories around the world remind us that truth is often stranger than fiction. From animal antics to human oddities, technological mishaps to natural wonders, our world is full of surprises. These stories not only entertain us but also challenge our understanding of what’s possible. They remind us to stay curious, keep an open mind, and always be ready for the unexpected.
In a world that can sometimes seem predictable, these bizarre occurrences inject a dose of wonder and amazement into our lives. They serve as a testament to the incredible diversity of experiences our planet has to offer and the boundless creativity of both nature and human beings.
