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A pope, a pop star and the heart emoji: What was hot on Instagram this year

By Azadeh Ansari, CNN

Updated 9:15 AM ET, Sat December 3, 2016

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US President Barack Obama holds 10-month-old Brooks Breitwieser during a Hillary Clinton campaign event in Columbus, Ohio, on Tuesday, November 1.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
US President Barack Obama holds 10-month-old Brooks Breitwieser during a Hillary Clinton campaign event in Columbus, Ohio, on Tuesday, November 1.
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From left, actresses America Ferrera, Amy Schumer, Eva Longoria and Jennifer Lawrence take a selfie together at the Golden Globe Awards. "Really good light back here in the presenters green room," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BAYXRsQyahl/?taken-by=americaferrera" target="_blank">Ferrera said on Instagram</a> on Sunday, January 10.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
From left, actresses America Ferrera, Amy Schumer, Eva Longoria and Jennifer Lawrence take a selfie together at the Golden Globe Awards. "Really good light back here in the presenters green room," Ferrera said on Instagram on Sunday, January 10.
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Ray Parker Jr., singer of the iconic "Ghostbusters" theme song, takes a selfie with cast members from both the 1984 movie and the 2016 reboot. "How can this picture NOT make you happy?" <a href="https://twitter.com/paulfeig/status/740520931550887937" target="_blank">tweeted the reboot's director, Paul Feig,</a> on Wednesday, June 8. Behind Parker, from left, are Bill Murray, Annie Potts, Leslie Jones, Kate McKinnon, Dan Akyroyd, Melissa McCarthy, Ernie Hudson and Kristen Wiig.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Ray Parker Jr., singer of the iconic "Ghostbusters" theme song, takes a selfie with cast members from both the 1984 movie and the 2016 reboot. "How can this picture NOT make you happy?" tweeted the reboot's director, Paul Feig, on Wednesday, June 8. Behind Parker, from left, are Bill Murray, Annie Potts, Leslie Jones, Kate McKinnon, Dan Akyroyd, Melissa McCarthy, Ernie Hudson and Kristen Wiig.
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"Something is happening in Hollywood tonight," <a href="https://twitter.com/SirPatStew/status/722251866793316353" target="_blank">tweeted actor Patrick Stewart</a> as he had makeup applied on Monday, April 18. He appeared in drag for a screening of his TV show "Blunt Talk."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"Something is happening in Hollywood tonight," tweeted actor Patrick Stewart as he had makeup applied on Monday, April 18. He appeared in drag for a screening of his TV show "Blunt Talk."
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A woman takes a selfie in front of a David Bowie mural in London on Tuesday, January 12. <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/01/11/entertainment/david-bowie-thr-obit/index.html" target="_blank">The rock legend died</a> January 10 at the age of 69.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A woman takes a selfie in front of a David Bowie mural in London on Tuesday, January 12. The rock legend died January 10 at the age of 69.
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A basketball fan at the University of Texas takes a selfie with a Donald Trump cutout before a game on Tuesday, January 12. Celebrity heads have become a popular feature at many basketball games, with fans waving them to distract opposing free-throw shooters.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A basketball fan at the University of Texas takes a selfie with a Donald Trump cutout before a game on Tuesday, January 12. Celebrity heads have become a popular feature at many basketball games, with fans waving them to distract opposing free-throw shooters.
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Denver Broncos offensive lineman Ryan Harris takes a selfie with quarterback Peyton Manning after the Broncos won the AFC Championship on Sunday, January 24. The Broncos went on to win the Super Bowl, and then Manning retired.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Denver Broncos offensive lineman Ryan Harris takes a selfie with quarterback Peyton Manning after the Broncos won the AFC Championship on Sunday, January 24. The Broncos went on to win the Super Bowl, and then Manning retired.
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A girl takes a selfie with a fennec fox at the Little Zoo Cafe, on the outskirts of Bangkok, Thailand, on Monday, March 7.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A girl takes a selfie with a fennec fox at the Little Zoo Cafe, on the outskirts of Bangkok, Thailand, on Monday, March 7.
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A young man takes a selfie Tuesday, July 26, by a sphere monument that had been painted into a giant "poke ball" in Yekaterinburg, Russia. The mobile game "Pokemon Go" <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2016/07/19/investing/pokemon-go-nintendo-shares/index.html" target="_blank">has been a sensation</a> for its company, Nintendo.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A young man takes a selfie Tuesday, July 26, by a sphere monument that had been painted into a giant "poke ball" in Yekaterinburg, Russia. The mobile game "Pokemon Go" has been a sensation for its company, Nintendo.
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Cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki takes an on-stage selfie with actor Leonardo DiCaprio and director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu during the Academy Awards on Sunday, February 28. All three won Oscars for "The Revenant."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki takes an on-stage selfie with actor Leonardo DiCaprio and director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu during the Academy Awards on Sunday, February 28. All three won Oscars for "The Revenant."
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U.S. Olympians Simone Manuel, left, and Simone Biles take a selfie together on Friday, August 12. "Simone x2," <a href="https://twitter.com/Simone_Biles/status/764153195048398849" target="_blank">Biles tweeted,</a> along with a gold-medal emoji. A day earlier, Manuel won the 100-meter freestyle, <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2016/08/11/sport/rio-olympics-day-6-preview/" target="_blank">becoming the first African-American woman to win an individual gold in an Olympic swimming event.</a> Biles dominated in gymnastics, winning gold in both the team and <a href="http://edition.cnn.com/2016/08/11/sport/simone-biles-usa-gymnastics-rio/" target="_blank">individual all-around.</a>
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
U.S. Olympians Simone Manuel, left, and Simone Biles take a selfie together on Friday, August 12. "Simone x2," Biles tweeted, along with a gold-medal emoji. A day earlier, Manuel won the 100-meter freestyle, becoming the first African-American woman to win an individual gold in an Olympic swimming event. Biles dominated in gymnastics, winning gold in both the team and individual all-around.
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Pop star Justin Bieber takes a selfie as he has a beauty mask applied on Monday, February 15. He posted it to his Instagram account, <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/08/16/entertainment/justin-bieber-sofia-richie-instagram/" target="_blank">which he quit</a> in August.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Pop star Justin Bieber takes a selfie as he has a beauty mask applied on Monday, February 15. He posted it to his Instagram account, which he quit in August.
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Rock star Marilyn Manson takes a selfie with a Justin Bieber shirt on Thursday, March 17. "Bigger than Bieber," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BDEAfhSHxKk/?hl=en" target="_blank">he said on Instagram.</a> A few days later, Bieber posted a photo of the two taking a selfie together.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Rock star Marilyn Manson takes a selfie with a Justin Bieber shirt on Thursday, March 17. "Bigger than Bieber," he said on Instagram. A few days later, Bieber posted a photo of the two taking a selfie together.
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A woman takes a selfie at Alfa Future People, an electronic music festival in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, on Friday, July 22.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A woman takes a selfie at Alfa Future People, an electronic music festival in Nizhny Novgorod, Russia, on Friday, July 22.
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British astronaut Tim Peake <a href="https://twitter.com/astro_timpeake/status/688794621116305408" target="_blank">tweeted this photo</a> from his spacewalk on Sunday, January 17. "I think I found the perfect spot for a #selfie," he said.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
British astronaut Tim Peake tweeted this photo from his spacewalk on Sunday, January 17. "I think I found the perfect spot for a #selfie," he said.
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Actress Gwendoline Christie, right, takes a selfie with the cast of the upcoming movie "Rogue One" during San Diego Comic-Con. "Thank you ‪@starwars ‪#StarWarsCelebration ‪#RogueOne for having me moderate the panel!!!!!!!!!! It was INCREDIBLE!!" <a href="https://twitter.com/lovegwendoline/status/754023542103109632" target="_blank">she tweeted</a> on Friday, July 15.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Actress Gwendoline Christie, right, takes a selfie with the cast of the upcoming movie "Rogue One" during San Diego Comic-Con. "Thank you ‪@starwars ‪#StarWarsCelebration ‪#RogueOne for having me moderate the panel!!!!!!!!!! It was INCREDIBLE!!" she tweeted on Friday, July 15.
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LeBron James takes a selfie with the Larry O'Brien Trophy after the Cleveland Cavaliers <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/19/sport/gallery/nba-finals-game-7/index.html" target="_blank">won the NBA title</a> on Sunday, June 19. In an <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BG5Byk7iTGF/" target="_blank">Instagram post</a>, he hit back at those who doubted him along the way.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
LeBron James takes a selfie with the Larry O'Brien Trophy after the Cleveland Cavaliers won the NBA title on Sunday, June 19. In an Instagram post, he hit back at those who doubted him along the way.
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Television personality Khloe Kardashian, second from left, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BFAKLFGBRgY/" target="_blank">smokes a cigar</a> in this selfie she posted from Cuba on Wednesday, May 4. Joining her, from left, are sisters Kourtney and Kim and friend Malika Haqq.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Television personality Khloe Kardashian, second from left, smokes a cigar in this selfie she posted from Cuba on Wednesday, May 4. Joining her, from left, are sisters Kourtney and Kim and friend Malika Haqq.
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A journalist takes a selfie with Alice, a Bactrian camel at the Toronto Zoo, before a naming ceremony for two panda cubs on Monday, March 7.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A journalist takes a selfie with Alice, a Bactrian camel at the Toronto Zoo, before a naming ceremony for two panda cubs on Monday, March 7.
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Comedian Kevin Hart takes a selfie with, from left, actors Queen Latifah, Will Smith, Halle Berry and Dwayne Johnson on Saturday, April 9. Hart and Johnson were hosting the MTV Movie Awards.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Comedian Kevin Hart takes a selfie with, from left, actors Queen Latifah, Will Smith, Halle Berry and Dwayne Johnson on Saturday, April 9. Hart and Johnson were hosting the MTV Movie Awards.
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Waris Ahluwalia, an Indian-American actor and jewelry designer, took this selfie after he got stuck in Mexico City's airport on Monday, February 8. Ahluwalia said Aeromexico staff and security screeners told him to buy a ticket on a different airline after he refused to remove the turban he wears as part of his faith. "Dear NYC fashion week, I may be a little late as @aeromexico won't let me fly with a turban," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BBiLpK2gTDv/" target="_blank">he said on Instagram.</a> "Don't start the show without me." Aeromexico <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/02/08/travel/aeromexico-sikh-turban-waris-ahluwalia/index.html" target="_blank">offered an apology,</a> saying it "recognizes and is proud of the diversity of its passengers."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Waris Ahluwalia, an Indian-American actor and jewelry designer, took this selfie after he got stuck in Mexico City's airport on Monday, February 8. Ahluwalia said Aeromexico staff and security screeners told him to buy a ticket on a different airline after he refused to remove the turban he wears as part of his faith. "Dear NYC fashion week, I may be a little late as @aeromexico won't let me fly with a turban," he said on Instagram. "Don't start the show without me." Aeromexico offered an apology, saying it "recognizes and is proud of the diversity of its passengers."
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People <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/26/politics/hillary-clinton-crowd-selfie-goes-viral/" target="_blank">take selfies</a> in front of Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton at a campaign rally in Orlando on Sunday, September 25.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
People take selfies in front of Democratic presidential nominee Hillary Clinton at a campaign rally in Orlando on Sunday, September 25.
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Actress Reese Witherspoon, left, poses for a photo with her daughter, Ava Phillippe, on Friday, July 8. "Mother daughter time," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BHnLUxtAN0m/" target="_blank">she said on Instagram.</a>
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Actress Reese Witherspoon, left, poses for a photo with her daughter, Ava Phillippe, on Friday, July 8. "Mother daughter time," she said on Instagram.
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Basketball star Kobe Bryant poses with two young fans in Houston on Sunday, April 10. Bryant <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/04/13/us/gallery/kobe-bryant/index.html" target="_blank">retired from the NBA</a> this year, scoring 60 points in his final game.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Basketball star Kobe Bryant poses with two young fans in Houston on Sunday, April 10. Bryant retired from the NBA this year, scoring 60 points in his final game.
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Cast members of the hit Broadway shows "Hamilton" and "On Your Feet!" <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BGk-n_uhcFL/" target="_blank">take a selfie</a> Sunday, June 12, at the Beacon Theater in New York. "Hamilton" <a href="http://money.cnn.com/2016/06/13/media/hamilton-tonys/" target="_blank">won 11 Tony Awards</a> this year, one short of the all-time record.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Cast members of the hit Broadway shows "Hamilton" and "On Your Feet!" take a selfie Sunday, June 12, at the Beacon Theater in New York. "Hamilton" won 11 Tony Awards this year, one short of the all-time record.
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A woman takes a selfie in front of a Prince memorial in Chanhassen, Minnesota, on Friday, April 22. The iconic musician <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/04/21/entertainment/gallery/prince-rogers-nelson/index.html" target="_blank">died a day earlier</a> at the age of 57.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A woman takes a selfie in front of a Prince memorial in Chanhassen, Minnesota, on Friday, April 22. The iconic musician died a day earlier at the age of 57.
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Singers Ed Sheeran, left, and Bruno Mars <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BB1T9OdO87B/" target="_blank">take a photo together</a> after the Grammy Awards on Monday, February 15. Sheeran won song of the year for "Thinking Out Loud." "Uptown Funk," Mars' collaboration with Mark Ronson, won record of the year.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Singers Ed Sheeran, left, and Bruno Mars take a photo together after the Grammy Awards on Monday, February 15. Sheeran won song of the year for "Thinking Out Loud." "Uptown Funk," Mars' collaboration with Mark Ronson, won record of the year.
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From left, actors Justin Theroux, Will Forte and Jennifer Aniston take a photo at the Critics' Choice Awards on Sunday, January 17.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
From left, actors Justin Theroux, Will Forte and Jennifer Aniston take a photo at the Critics' Choice Awards on Sunday, January 17.
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The top six competitors at the Arnold Classic pose for a selfie in Columbus, Ohio, on Saturday, March 5.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
The top six competitors at the Arnold Classic pose for a selfie in Columbus, Ohio, on Saturday, March 5.
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Actor Chris Pratt takes selfies with fans at the Venice Film Festival before "The Magnificent Seven" premiere on Saturday, September 10.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Actor Chris Pratt takes selfies with fans at the Venice Film Festival before "The Magnificent Seven" premiere on Saturday, September 10.
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Visitors enjoy the Oktoberfest beer festival in Munich, Germany, on Saturday, September 17.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Visitors enjoy the Oktoberfest beer festival in Munich, Germany, on Saturday, September 17.
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The Dixie Chicks and Beyonce take a selfie after <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/11/02/entertainment/beyonce-performs-2016-cma-awards/" target="_blank">their surprise performance together</a> at the CMA Awards. "I can finally talk about one of the greatest weeks of my life!" <a href="https://twitter.com/1NatalieMaines/status/794089128547717120" target="_blank">tweeted Natalie Maines,</a> the Dixie Chicks' lead singer, on Thursday, November 3. "Thank you @Beyonce ! You slay. All day!"
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
The Dixie Chicks and Beyonce take a selfie after their surprise performance together at the CMA Awards. "I can finally talk about one of the greatest weeks of my life!" tweeted Natalie Maines, the Dixie Chicks' lead singer, on Thursday, November 3. "Thank you @Beyonce ! You slay. All day!"
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"I found the Easter bunny," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BDeQ1ZesZUr/" target="_blank">model Ruby Rose said on Instagram, </a>referring to actress Nina Dobrev on Sunday, March 27. "Better looking than Santa Claus."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"I found the Easter bunny," model Ruby Rose said on Instagram, referring to actress Nina Dobrev on Sunday, March 27. "Better looking than Santa Claus."
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Tennis star Serena Williams takes a photo with her trophy after winning the Italian Open in Rome on Sunday, May 15.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Tennis star Serena Williams takes a photo with her trophy after winning the Italian Open in Rome on Sunday, May 15.
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People in New York take selfies in front of the Stonewall Inn, an iconic symbol of the modern gay rights movement, on Friday, June 24. A few days later, the gay bar was designated as <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/24/travel/stonewall-inn-first-lgbt-national-monument/" target="_blank">the country's first national monument to LGBT rights.</a> The riots there in 1969 -- <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/06/16/us/gallery/tbt-first-pride-parades/index.html" target="_blank">and the protests that followed</a> -- were a turning point for LGBT rights in the United States.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
People in New York take selfies in front of the Stonewall Inn, an iconic symbol of the modern gay rights movement, on Friday, June 24. A few days later, the gay bar was designated as the country's first national monument to LGBT rights. The riots there in 1969 -- and the protests that followed -- were a turning point for LGBT rights in the United States.
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Talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres <a href="https://twitter.com/TheEllenShow/status/776560354910318592" target="_blank">tweeted the hashtag "#SquadGoals"</a> as she took a selfie with, from left, rappers Lil Wayne, Chance the Rapper and 2 Chainz on Thursday, September 15.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres tweeted the hashtag "#SquadGoals" as she took a selfie with, from left, rappers Lil Wayne, Chance the Rapper and 2 Chainz on Thursday, September 15.
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What's in the doorway behind actress Jessica Alba? "I have no idea what that is," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BAfRryhMuuD/" target="_blank">Alba said on Instagram</a> on Wednesday, January 13. She added a scream emoji and said, "Freaky."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
What's in the doorway behind actress Jessica Alba? "I have no idea what that is," Alba said on Instagram on Wednesday, January 13. She added a scream emoji and said, "Freaky."
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Pope Francis poses for a selfie during his visit to a refugee center in Rome on Thursday, March 24.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Pope Francis poses for a selfie during his visit to a refugee center in Rome on Thursday, March 24.
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Singer Rihanna wears some fancy headphones <a href="https://twitter.com/rihanna/status/691627277940080640" target="_blank">as she listens</a> to her latest album, "Anti," on Monday, January 25.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Singer Rihanna wears some fancy headphones as she listens to her latest album, "Anti," on Monday, January 25.
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Villanova basketball player Ryan Arcidiacono takes a selfie during the team's championship parade on Friday, April 8.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Villanova basketball player Ryan Arcidiacono takes a selfie during the team's championship parade on Friday, April 8.
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Women use their cell phones in Milan, Italy, on Thursday, February 25.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Women use their cell phones in Milan, Italy, on Thursday, February 25.
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"Saturday Night Live" <a href="https://twitter.com/nbcsnl/status/687784060152901633" target="_blank">tweeted this "soundcheck selfie"</a> with country singer Chris Stapleton on Thursday, January 14. Stapleton, wearing the cowboy hat, was the show's musical guest that week.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"Saturday Night Live" tweeted this "soundcheck selfie" with country singer Chris Stapleton on Thursday, January 14. Stapleton, wearing the cowboy hat, was the show's musical guest that week.
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Rampage, the mascot of the NFL's Los Angeles Rams, takes a selfie during the team's home game against Buffalo on Sunday, October 9. The Rams moved from St. Louis earlier this year.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Rampage, the mascot of the NFL's Los Angeles Rams, takes a selfie during the team's home game against Buffalo on Sunday, October 9. The Rams moved from St. Louis earlier this year.
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Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, takes a selfie with his son, Boomer, on Tuesday, September 13. "The little man and I don't wanna get out (of) bed this morning!!" <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BKTaFm8g_i9/" target="_blank">he said on Instagram.</a>
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Michael Phelps, the most decorated Olympian of all time, takes a selfie with his son, Boomer, on Tuesday, September 13. "The little man and I don't wanna get out (of) bed this morning!!" he said on Instagram.
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Rapper Kendrick Lamar, bottom right, <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BD9oH0VTOiT/" target="_blank">inducted N.W.A. into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame</a> on Friday, April 8. Around Lamar, from left, are DJ Yella, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre and MC Ren.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Rapper Kendrick Lamar, bottom right, inducted N.W.A. into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on Friday, April 8. Around Lamar, from left, are DJ Yella, Ice Cube, Dr. Dre and MC Ren.
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Models Izabel Goulart, left, and Alessandra Ambrosio take a selfie at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday, May 20.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Models Izabel Goulart, left, and Alessandra Ambrosio take a selfie at the Cannes Film Festival on Friday, May 20.
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Actor Tom Holland <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BHk9CiRjeEr/?hl=en" target="_blank">shares a selfie</a> he took on the set of "Spider-Man: Homecoming" on Thursday, July 7. He said the film would hit theaters in a year.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Actor Tom Holland shares a selfie he took on the set of "Spider-Man: Homecoming" on Thursday, July 7. He said the film would hit theaters in a year.
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South Korean gymnast Lee Eun-ju takes a selfie with North Korean gymnast Hong Un-jong during Olympic training in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday, August 4.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
South Korean gymnast Lee Eun-ju takes a selfie with North Korean gymnast Hong Un-jong during Olympic training in Rio de Janeiro on Thursday, August 4.
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Actor Caleb McLaughlin, left, takes a photo with other cast members of "Stranger Things" as they visit the White House on Tuesday, October 4. <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BLJwwPiDsLP/" target="_blank">He posted it to Instagram</a> with the caption: "60 seconds after meeting the President."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Actor Caleb McLaughlin, left, takes a photo with other cast members of "Stranger Things" as they visit the White House on Tuesday, October 4. He posted it to Instagram with the caption: "60 seconds after meeting the President."
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An activist in Sao Paulo, Brazil, takes a selfie Friday, June 10, during a protest against rape and violence against women. The protest came weeks after <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/05/30/americas/brazil-gang-rape-victim-speaks/" target="_blank">a 16-year-old girl was reportedly gang-raped</a> in Rio de Janeiro.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
An activist in Sao Paulo, Brazil, takes a selfie Friday, June 10, during a protest against rape and violence against women. The protest came weeks after a 16-year-old girl was reportedly gang-raped in Rio de Janeiro.
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Actor Christopher Meloni reunites with his "Law & Order: SVU" co-star Mariska Hargitay on Friday, March 11. <a href="https://twitter.com/Chris_Meloni/status/708284146683142145" target="_blank">He tweeted the selfie</a> with the hashtag "#hanginWithAFriend."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Actor Christopher Meloni reunites with his "Law & Order: SVU" co-star Mariska Hargitay on Friday, March 11. He tweeted the selfie with the hashtag "#hanginWithAFriend."
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Model Kendall Jenner takes a selfie in Rome on Saturday, March 12. "Keepin a low prof at the Trevi Fountain," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BC3OjBHjo1D/?hl=en" target="_blank">she said on Instagram.</a>
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Model Kendall Jenner takes a selfie in Rome on Saturday, March 12. "Keepin a low prof at the Trevi Fountain," she said on Instagram.
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Former soccer star David Beckham takes a selfie in front of a wax figure of himself and his wife, Victoria, on Saturday, October 8. "Thank you to Nicole and everyone at Madame Tussauds for letting me meet this lovely couple," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BLTFpSoh0yb/" target="_blank">Beckham said on Instagram.</a>
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Former soccer star David Beckham takes a selfie in front of a wax figure of himself and his wife, Victoria, on Saturday, October 8. "Thank you to Nicole and everyone at Madame Tussauds for letting me meet this lovely couple," Beckham said on Instagram.
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U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake tries to take a selfie with a pig before a news conference about "pork barrel" spending on Wednesday, April 13.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
U.S. Sen. Jeff Flake tries to take a selfie with a pig before a news conference about "pork barrel" spending on Wednesday, April 13.
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Members of the Chicago Cubs take a selfie together during their World Series victory parade on Friday, November 4. The Cubs hadn't won the World Series since 1908.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Members of the Chicago Cubs take a selfie together during their World Series victory parade on Friday, November 4. The Cubs hadn't won the World Series since 1908.
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"Good morning from the set of #supergirl from me & the resident transpo pup Duke," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BAz_zFwJVxk/" target="_blank">actress Melissa Benoist said</a> on Thursday, January 21.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"Good morning from the set of #supergirl from me & the resident transpo pup Duke," actress Melissa Benoist said on Thursday, January 21.
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A star-studded group takes a selfie on Thursday, April 7. From left are comedian Chris Rock, rapper Andre 3000, DJ D-Nice, musician Jarobi White, musician Jack White and comedian Dave Chappelle. "Hard at work on the new Andre 3000 album," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BD6xtMxim9g/" target="_blank">Rock joked (we think) on Instagram.</a>
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A star-studded group takes a selfie on Thursday, April 7. From left are comedian Chris Rock, rapper Andre 3000, DJ D-Nice, musician Jarobi White, musician Jack White and comedian Dave Chappelle. "Hard at work on the new Andre 3000 album," Rock joked (we think) on Instagram.
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"You cannot tell me that my life is not blessed," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BB6kbfNqE9j/?taken-by=iamjamiefoxx" target="_blank">actor and singer Jamie Foxx said</a> on Thursday, February 18. "Just finished doing a record with The legendary Barbra Streisand... 'climb every mountain.' "
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"You cannot tell me that my life is not blessed," actor and singer Jamie Foxx said on Thursday, February 18. "Just finished doing a record with The legendary Barbra Streisand... 'climb every mountain.' "
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"Welcome home!" said soccer star Lionel Messi <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LeoMessi/photos/a.301943896491878.81719.176063032413299/1159276294091963/?type=3&theater" target="_blank">as he snapped a photo with the Ballon d'Or</a> on Tuesday, January 12. Messi won the Golden Ball -- awarded to the world's best soccer player -- for the fourth time in his career.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"Welcome home!" said soccer star Lionel Messi as he snapped a photo with the Ballon d'Or on Tuesday, January 12. Messi won the Golden Ball -- awarded to the world's best soccer player -- for the fourth time in his career.
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"Trying to get my phone back," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BECvBfUxxRJ/" target="_blank">actor Sylvester Stallone said on Instagram</a> on Sunday, April 10. He is surrounded by his daughters Sophia, Scarlet and Sistine.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"Trying to get my phone back," actor Sylvester Stallone said on Instagram on Sunday, April 10. He is surrounded by his daughters Sophia, Scarlet and Sistine.
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Women in Cheltenham, England, pose with a person in a leprechaun suit on St. Patrick's Day.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Women in Cheltenham, England, pose with a person in a leprechaun suit on St. Patrick's Day.
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A young woman tries to get a selfie with US Sen. Ted Cruz during the presidential candidate's campaign stop in Tilton, New Hampshire, on Monday, January 18.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A young woman tries to get a selfie with US Sen. Ted Cruz during the presidential candidate's campaign stop in Tilton, New Hampshire, on Monday, January 18.
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Some cast members of the upcoming "Black Panther" movie <a href="https://twitter.com/Lupita_Nyongo/status/757022532251717632" target="_blank">take a selfie</a> at San Diego Comic-Con on Saturday, July 23. From left are actor Chadwick Boseman, director Ryan Coogler, actress Lupita Nyong'o, actor Michael B. Jordan, actress Danai Gurira and panel moderator Chris Hardwick.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Some cast members of the upcoming "Black Panther" movie take a selfie at San Diego Comic-Con on Saturday, July 23. From left are actor Chadwick Boseman, director Ryan Coogler, actress Lupita Nyong'o, actor Michael B. Jordan, actress Danai Gurira and panel moderator Chris Hardwick.
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Hockey star Evgeni Malkin, right, <a href="https://twitter.com/malkin71_/status/742315722924134400" target="_blank">takes a selfie</a> with his Pittsburgh Penguins teammates Phil Kessel, left, and Carl Hagelin after they won the Stanley Cup on Sunday, June 12.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Hockey star Evgeni Malkin, right, takes a selfie with his Pittsburgh Penguins teammates Phil Kessel, left, and Carl Hagelin after they won the Stanley Cup on Sunday, June 12.
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"Best celebrity I've ever met," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BD3iIAnwF43/" target="_blank">said actor Seth Rogen,</a> posing with Gonzo the Muppet on Wednesday, April 6.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"Best celebrity I've ever met," said actor Seth Rogen, posing with Gonzo the Muppet on Wednesday, April 6.
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Actress Kate Hudson ran into rocker Steven Tyler on Wednesday, September 14. "Best plane run in ever!" <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BKW6iRKAIGu/" target="_blank">Hudson said on Instagram.</a> "Love you Papa Steven."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Actress Kate Hudson ran into rocker Steven Tyler on Wednesday, September 14. "Best plane run in ever!" Hudson said on Instagram. "Love you Papa Steven."
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People take selfies at the Bandra Fort bandstand, a famous tourist spot in Mumbai, India, on Thursday, February 25.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
People take selfies at the Bandra Fort bandstand, a famous tourist spot in Mumbai, India, on Thursday, February 25.
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"Yo! He's ALIVE!!!!!" <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BKhS_4WBD_U/" target="_blank">said actress Kerry Washington</a> as she snagged a photo with Kit Harington at <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/18/entertainment/emmy-awards-2016/" target="_blank">the Emmys</a> on Sunday, September 18. She was referring to Harington's character on the show "Game of Thrones."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"Yo! He's ALIVE!!!!!" said actress Kerry Washington as she snagged a photo with Kit Harington at the Emmys on Sunday, September 18. She was referring to Harington's character on the show "Game of Thrones."
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Actress Laverne Cox received an honorary degree from The New School in New York, where she spoke during the commencement ceremony on Friday, May 20. "Thank you @thenewschool for this incredible honor," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BFo0tpPCh3n/" target="_blank">she said on Instagram.</a> "Thank you to the faculty and graduating class for welcoming me today with so much love."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Actress Laverne Cox received an honorary degree from The New School in New York, where she spoke during the commencement ceremony on Friday, May 20. "Thank you @thenewschool for this incredible honor," she said on Instagram. "Thank you to the faculty and graduating class for welcoming me today with so much love."
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US Vice President-elect Mike Pence uses a selfie stick for a photo with House Republicans on Thursday, November 17. <a href="https://twitter.com/HouseGOP/status/799280212441702405" target="_blank">The House GOP tweeted it</a> with the caption "UNIFIED."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
US Vice President-elect Mike Pence uses a selfie stick for a photo with House Republicans on Thursday, November 17. The House GOP tweeted it with the caption "UNIFIED."
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A woman takes a selfie atop a mountain in Norway's Lofoten islands on Sunday, August 21.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A woman takes a selfie atop a mountain in Norway's Lofoten islands on Sunday, August 21.
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"An example of what happens when you don't wear sunscreen," <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/BBh_iM9ChL6/" target="_blank">warned actor Hugh Jackman</a> on Monday, February 8. "Basal Cell. The mildest form of cancer but serious, nonetheless. PLEASE USE SUNSCREEN and get regular check-ups."
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
"An example of what happens when you don't wear sunscreen," warned actor Hugh Jackman on Monday, February 8. "Basal Cell. The mildest form of cancer but serious, nonetheless. PLEASE USE SUNSCREEN and get regular check-ups."
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Model Gigi Hadid takes a selfie with a fan in Tokyo during the launch of her Tommy Hilfiger collaboration on Wednesday, October 12.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
Model Gigi Hadid takes a selfie with a fan in Tokyo during the launch of her Tommy Hilfiger collaboration on Wednesday, October 12.
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A boy takes a selfie as he tests the Oculus VR, a virtual reality headset, in Barcelona, Spain, on Monday, February 22. It was the first day of the Mobile World Congress.
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
A boy takes a selfie as he tests the Oculus VR, a virtual reality headset, in Barcelona, Spain, on Monday, February 22. It was the first day of the Mobile World Congress.
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On Friday, May 6, fans of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim <a href="http://m.mlb.com/cutfour/2016/05/07/176706858/angel-stadium-sets-selfie-stick-world-record" target="_blank">set a Guinness World Record</a> for the largest gathering of people using selfie sticks. <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2015/12/03/living/gallery/year-in-selfies-2015/index.html" target="_blank">See the best selfies from 2015</a>
Photos: Look at me! Selfies of the year
On Friday, May 6, fans of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim set a Guinness World Record for the largest gathering of people using selfie sticks. See the best selfies from 2015
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(CNN)A Pope and a pop star ruled Instagram this year, but they weren't the only popular figures on the social media platform. Olympic icons, caffeinated hashtags, an Oscar-winning actor and smiley-face emojis also were crowd-pleasers. Here's what else we learned cruising through Instagram's 2016 list of the most popular hashtags, emojis, celebrities and moments:

1. Instagram newbies

Pope Francis makes history again. Francis isn't just shaking things up at the Vatican, he also making his mark on social media, becoming the first Pope to join the popular image-sharing platform. More than 328,000 people poured out their photo love for the first post of him praying at the altar. The bishop of Rome -- aka @franciscus -- has amassed more than 3.4 million followers on the social network since joining.
Soccer legend Pele, singer Kanye West and actress Halle Berry were among 13 other well-known figures to break new personal ground with their first photo posts on the site this year.

    2. Celebrities who stole the Instagram spotlight

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    Fans can't get enough of Selena Gomez. The 24-year-old American actress and singer has captured the spotlight as this year's most popular Instagram celebrity. With more than 103 million followers -- about the population of the Philippines -- Gomez not only surpassed Pope Francis, she also outperformed other contenders such as Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande, Beyonce and Kim Kardashian.

    when your lyrics are on the bottle 😛 #ad

    A photo posted by Selena Gomez (@selenagomez) on

    Not only did Gomez's posts and videos steal the show, she grew her follower base by 50 million -- the most of any celebrity -- even knocking out soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. He came in second with 42 million new followers this year.

    3. Most-used emoji

    No smiling faces here, the award for the most commonly used emoji of the year goes to the little red heart. "Heart eyes" and "joy face" round out the three most-used digital images on the photo-centric social media site.

    4. Feel the love

    World's favorite Instagram destinations for 2016
    World's favorite Instagram destinations for 2016
    In the sea of Instagram's hashtags, #love prevailed above all. Food lovers on the other hand had an insatiable appetite for #instafood, while #coffee was the No. 1 choice for beverage connoisseurs.

    5. Star moments

    Fans and musicians around the world showed an outpouring of #love this year while paying tribute to late music icons David Bowie and Prince with their favorite memory-filled moments.
    Fashion model Iman rocked a sweater from Gucci's Fall 2016 collection to honor her late husband, Bowie, on Instagram at the 2016 Grammys.

    @gucci #Fall2016

    A photo posted by IMAN (@the_real_iman) on

    The 2016 Rio Games finished as "the most social Olympic Games in history and the most Instagrammed event ever measured." Athletes, celebrities and sports fans captured their favorite Olympic moments and shared them with the world.

    Surprise!! #Rio2016 #FinalFive

    A photo posted by Zac Efron (@zacefron) on

    nós viemos , nós vimos , conquistamos Rio eu tenho amor infinito para você. nós nos" #euestoufora

    A photo posted by Usain St.Leo Bolt (@usainbolt) on

    But this year's Instagram gold medal moment goes to actor Leonardo DiCaprio after he received the best actor Oscar for "The Revenant" -- his first win after earlier snubs. With more than 1.2 million likes, Instagram calls it "the" moment of 2016.
    Gallery: Most Instagrammed cities