Meghan Markle Returns to Instagram with Tribute to Kids

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, made her highly anticipated return to Instagram on Tuesday, Feb. 4, 2025, sharing a heartfelt video that paid tribute to her two children, Archie, 5, and Lilibet, 3. The post marked her first solo social media appearance since stepping back from royal duties in 2020.

In the video, Meghan appeared casual yet stylish, wearing a black crewneck sweater adorned with her children’s names in white cursive lettering near the neckline. She paired the sweater with blue jeans, gold bracelets, and wore her hair down, showcasing a natural, barefaced look. The Duchess expressed joy while unboxing merchandise and a signed album from Billie Eilish, which she received after reconnecting with the singer in January.

Meghan also used the platform to highlight her philanthropic efforts, sharing a touching story about a mother and daughter affected by the recent Los Angeles wildfires. The Duchess revealed that the young girl had lost her beloved Billie Eilish T-shirt while escaping the fires, prompting Meghan to personally source a replacement as a gift.

This Instagram comeback follows Meghan’s initial return to the platform on Jan. 1, 2025, under the handle @meghan. The account marks her first solo venture on social media since she and Prince Harry deactivated their joint account, @SussexRoyal, in March 2020 after stepping back from their senior royal roles. The couple has since focused on their family and charitable endeavors, with Meghan’s new account offering a glimpse into her personal and professional life.

A close friend of the couple told PEOPLE that Meghan and Harry remain committed to protecting their children’s privacy. “Harry has been reluctant to show his children publicly, not out of a desire to hide them but to protect their privacy and safety from potential threats,” the friend said. “He wants them to lead as normal a life as possible without the fear of kidnapping or harm.”

The friend also referenced the tragic death of Harry’s mother, Princess Diana, in 1997, emphasizing Harry’s determination to shield his family from similar scrutiny. “As a dad and husband, Harry is determined to ensure that history doesn’t repeat itself,” the friend added.

Meghan’s Instagram return coincides with the upcoming premiere of her Netflix series, *With Love, Meghan*, which was originally scheduled for Jan. 15 but was postponed to March 4 due to the wildfires. In a statement, Meghan expressed gratitude to Netflix for supporting the delay, stating, “I’m thankful to my partners at Netflix for supporting me in delaying the launch, as we focus on the needs of those impacted by the wildfires in my home state of California.”

As Meghan continues to balance her roles as a mother, philanthropist, and public figure, her Instagram account offers a new avenue for connecting with her audience while maintaining her family’s privacy.