Meghan Markle disables Instagram comments — and here’s why it’s significant
Meghan Markle returned to Instagram on January 1, 2025, marking her first personal post since shutting down her account in 2018.
In her debut video, filmed by Prince Harry, she wrote “2025” in the sand on a beach in Montecito, California. However, many quickly noticed she had disabled comments on her posts.
Meghan has long spoken out about the negative impact of social media, especially the hate she’s faced online. In an October 2020 interview, she revealed being the “most trolled person in the world,” and discussed the emotional toll of online cruelty.
In the 2022 *Harry & Meghan* docuseries, she tearfully shared how death threats and hateful messages had affected her, especially as a mother.
These experiences highlight the real-world consequences of online hate, prompting her to protect her peace by disabling comments on her Instagram posts.
In 2021, a Twitter analytics service found that a «hate network» of 83 accounts was responsible for 70% of the harassment directed at Harry and Meghan, including racist language.
Meghan has frequently spoken about the need for humane tech, saying social media’s current state shapes how we interact both online and offline. She believes platforms can either train people to be cruel or kind.
Meghan’s return to Instagram allows her to share with followers but disabling comments protects her from negativity. A source says she’s excited to spread «joy» and share updates on her projects.
As part of their work with The Archewell Foundation, she and Harry aim to create a safer digital world. Meghan has also suggested a «dislike» button on platforms to reduce vitriol and improve online interactions, especially for women.
She’s emphasized the harmful effects of online hate on mental health and safety, making it clear why comments are disabled on her account, which gained 1 million followers within 24 hours.
