EXCLUSIVE: Meghan Markle is seeking to create a “supportive” social media environment.

Meghan Markle made the decision to disable the comments on her Instagram account (Image: GETTY)

A PR expert has revealed the likely reason behind Meghan Markle’s decision to disable comments on her new Instagram account.

The Duchess of Sussex made a surprise return to the social media platform on New Year’s Day, with the the reveal of a simple reel of her running along a beach in California.

The mum of two is then seen bending over to draw ‘2025’ in the wet sand. Just hours later, the 43-year-old posted another surprise for her fans – the new trailer for her highly-anticipated Netflix series, ‘With Love, Meghan’.

Although fans are able to interact by ‘liking’ the posts, comments have been disabled. This has since been described as a “savvy” move by one PR expert.

Speaking to Express.co.uk, celebrity PR expert Ed Hopkins said that the likely reason behind the decision is to “protect her mental health and reduce the risk of harmful or negative interactions”.

Meghan Markle released a short reel to her Instagram account on New Year’s Day (Image: Instagram/meghan)

Mr Hopkins added: “From a PR perspective, this decision isn’t necessarily about avoiding engagement, but rather about protecting her mental health and reducing the risk of harmful or negative interactions, which can be all too common on social media platforms.

“It’s no secret that Meghan has faced a significant amount of online criticism in the past, and by limiting public commentary, she’s likely seeking to create a more positive and supportive space for herself and her followers.”

He also noted that this is unlikely to affect how Meghan will “foster engagement”. Mr Hopkins explained: “Meghan’s posts can still foster engagement in other ways – such as through her choice of content, her message, and the conversations she sparks around her posts.

“Additionally, social media platforms like Instagram provide many other forms of engagement (likes, shares, DMs), which allow followers to show their support without the need for open public commentary.”

Meghan Markle’s new show will be released on January 15 (Image: Netflix)

Concluding, he added: “Ultimately, the key here is balance – Meghan is likely looking to protect her peace while also sharing meaningful moments and causes with her followers.

“As we’ve seen from other public figures, taking control of one’s digital environment can be a savvy and empowering move.”

‘With Love, Meghan’ will air on Netflix on Wednesday, January 15.