The festive season brings a beloved tradition for puzzle enthusiasts and news followers alike: Stephen Collins' annual Christmas cartoon challenge for The Guardian. This year's intricate illustration presents a bustling pub scene where readers are tasked with a jolly mission: to identify 20 prominent figures who dominated the headlines in 2025.
The 2025 Newsmakers in Cartoon Form
Collins' detailed artwork serves as a witty visual archive of the year's major cultural, sporting, and political events. The challenge invites you to scan the scene, from the bar to the quiz tables, and spot the famous faces cleverly woven into the cartoon's narrative. From Hollywood stars to political leaders and sports champions, the puzzle captures the essence of a memorable year.
Who Made the Cut? A Guide to the Faces
If you've been struggling to put a name to every face, here is a rundown of the celebrities and newsmakers featured, based on the provided answers. Sydney Sweeney can be found at the bar, while music fans will spot the reunited Liam and Noel Gallagher. Television personality Claudia Winkleman makes an appearance, recognisable after her stint hosting The Traitors.
The political world is represented by Keir Starmer, depicted enjoying a pub quiz after a challenging year, and Justin Trudeau, who is pictured with Katy Perry following her space voyage. The arts and music scene is strongly featured, with Timothée Chalamet as Bob Dylan, Olivia Rodrigo who stole the show at Glastonbury, and Kendrick Lamar referencing his Super Bowl performance. The power couple Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce also feature, promoting a new album via podcast.
Sporting triumphs are celebrated with Luke Littler, the young darts world champion, and Lauren James of the victorious England Lionesses who won the Euros. The cartoon also nods to environmental news with the return of beavers to England, and touches on papal history with a mention of the new Pope. Figures like Nigel Farage are also referenced in the accompanying clues.
More Than Just a Puzzle: A Cultural Snapshot
This annual challenge is more than a simple spot-the-difference game. It acts as a light-hearted review of the year's defining moments. By integrating figures from such diverse fields, Stephen Collins creates a unique cultural snapshot that is both engaging and reflective. The puzzle's charm lies in its blend of current affairs commentary with traditional festive fun, offering a moment of connection for readers who have followed these stories over the past twelve months.
For those who enjoy this format, The Guardian encourages further exploration of its puzzles and games, including crosswords, sudoku, and new digital offerings like the football game On The Ball and the Film Reveal quiz, all available via the Guardian app.
