Meghan Markle made a headline-grabbing return to Instagram on New Year’s Day, marking her first post in over seven years.
The video, filmed by Prince Harry, shows Markle running on a Montecito beach and etching “2025” into the sand, Page Six reported.
The Instagram video, posted under the handle @meghan, begins with Meghan running toward the ocean in an all-white outfit. As waves crash nearby, she traces “2025” in the sand before jogging away with a laugh. The carefree moment was captured by her husband, Prince Harry, showcasing a playful glimpse into their life in California.
The account @meghan, now officially tied to Meghan Markle, was first reported by Page Six in August 2023. This marked the first step in her social media comeback after years of staying offline. Despite the account’s launch, Meghan waited until January 1, 2025, to make her first post.
As of the video’s release, the Instagram account had amassed 113,000 followers. Interestingly, Meghan has not followed any accounts herself. Her profile picture is a black-and-white image that captures her smiling with her hair down, a simple yet elegant choice for her public return.
The post quickly attracted attention from fans and celebrities alike. High-profile figures such as Serena Williams, Chrissy Teigen, and Tan France showed their support by liking the post. However, Meghan chose to disable comments, keeping the focus solely on the video itself.
Meghan’s return to Instagram marks a significant moment, as she deactivated her accounts after her engagement to Prince Harry in November 2017. The couple, who married in May 2018, stepped away from royal duties and moved to the United States, where they settled in Montecito, California.
During this time, Meghan and Harry continued to engage with the public through various media projects. These included a Netflix documentary that offered a glimpse into their personal lives and Harry’s memoir, “Spare,” which provided an in-depth look at his experiences.
Meghan had hinted at a potential return to Instagram during an interview with The Cut in August 2022. In the interview, she shared her intentions, saying, “Do you want to know a secret? I’m getting back…on Instagram.” This statement sparked speculation that came to fruition over two years later.
The choice to debut the video on January 1, 2025, seems symbolic, signaling a fresh start for Meghan as she plans a significant professional resurgence this year. Along with her Instagram comeback, she has plans to launch a new show and a lifestyle brand called American Riviera Orchard.
Meghan’s recent actions suggest a deliberate and calculated return to public life. By controlling the narrative around her social media presence, she demonstrates a keen awareness of her audience and the impact of her digital footprint.
The beach video, while simple, carries a sense of renewal and optimism. It highlights Meghan’s ability to connect with her followers while keeping a degree of privacy, as evidenced by her choice to disable comments on the post.
Meghan’s decision to re-enter Instagram coincides with a broader strategy to reshape her public image. After stepping back from royal duties, she and Prince Harry have navigated a complex relationship with the media, balancing openness with privacy.
The video’s informal tone contrasts with the more formal appearances Meghan and Harry have made in the past, including their work with Netflix and publishing projects. This approach may signal a shift in how they engage with their audience moving forward.
As of now, Meghan has yet to follow any accounts on Instagram or post additional content. Fans and followers will be watching closely to see how she develops her digital presence in the coming months.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Montecito, the video offers a rare look at the couple’s California lifestyle. Since relocating to the United States, Meghan and Harry have emphasized their desire for a more private and peaceful life while still participating in public initiatives.
Their two children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, born in 2019 and 2021 respectively, are central to this new chapter. Balancing family life with professional ambitions has been a recurring theme for the couple since their move.
With this latest development, Meghan has reasserted her position as a prominent public figure, blending personal expression with professional aspirations. Her return to Instagram is likely just the beginning of what promises to be a dynamic year for the Duchess of Sussex.
