Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has made her long-awaited return to Instagram, marking her first post on the platform since 2020. The new account, @meghan, began 2025 with a simple but symbolic video post, capturing widespread attention.
In her debut video, Meghan is seen walking along a serene beach, dressed in white, as she writes “2025” in the sand. The black-and-white video, set against an overcast sky, has already captivated audiences, with the account amassing over 200,000 followers shortly after its launch.
A New Chapter for the Duchess
The Duchess’ return to social media is her first since the closure of her previous account, @SussexRoyal, which she shared with her husband, Prince Harry, the Duke of Sussex. That account was discontinued in 2020 when the couple decided to step back from their roles as senior members of the British royal family.
This new Instagram account signals a fresh start for Meghan, who was once a highly active social media user before her marriage. Her original personal account had garnered significant popularity during her time on the legal drama Suits. Since then, fans have eagerly awaited her return to the platform.
The Evolution of Meghan’s Social Media Presence
Meghan and Harry initially shared the @KensingtonRoyal Instagram account with Prince William and Kate, Princess of Wales. In 2019, they created their own handle, @SussexRoyal, symbolizing their growing independence within the royal family. However, their digital presence was abruptly halted when they stepped away from royal duties and relocated to the United States.
In a 2022 interview with The Cut, Meghan hinted at her plans to return to Instagram, saying, “Do you want to know a secret? I’m getting back … on Instagram.” Despite this, she remained absent from the platform for years, citing personal concerns and the potential for online harassment. Her advocacy in 2023 for stricter content moderation on social media underscored her apprehensions about the darker side of the internet.
Balancing Privacy and Public Life
Meghan’s choice to reenter the Instagram sphere reflects a balancing act between her desire for privacy and the necessity of public engagement. In recent years, she and Prince Harry have made it clear that they value their family’s privacy, particularly for their two young children, Archie and Lilibet.
Still, the Duchess has maintained a steady presence in public conversations through high-profile interviews, podcast appearances, and philanthropic work. This return to Instagram may serve as a platform to connect directly with her supporters while retaining control over the narrative.
Meghan’s Social Media Journey at a Glance:
- @KensingtonRoyal (2018-2019): Shared account with the Prince and Princess of Wales.
- @SussexRoyal (2019-2020): Independent account for the Duke and Duchess of Sussex.
- @meghan (2025): Solo account marking a new personal and professional chapter.
Public Reaction and Cultural Significance
The Duchess’ return has been met with enthusiasm, with fans and commentators speculating about the purpose of the account. Will she use it for personal updates, professional projects, or broader advocacy? The minimalist post suggests that Meghan is starting cautiously, perhaps testing the waters before revealing more.
This move also aligns with broader trends among public figures reclaiming social media as a space for authentic communication, away from intermediaries. Meghan’s return could represent a shift in how she manages her public image and engages with her global audience.
While it’s too early to tell how active she will be on the platform, one thing is clear: Meghan’s return to Instagram is already making waves.
