EXCLUSIVE: Meghan Markle made a return to Instagram just hours before the trailer for her new cooking show was released.

Meghan Markle has disabled comments on her Instagram account (Image: Instagram/@meghan)

Meghan Markle has disabled comments on her new Instagram account, with a PR expert describing her decision to do so as a “strategic move”.

The 43-year-old’s social media return came just hours before the brand-new trailer for ‘With Love, Meghan’ was released.

Speaking to Express.co.uk about Meghan’s “strategic move”, celebrity PR expert Ed Hopkins said: “Meghan Markle’s decision to disable comments on her new Instagram account seems like a strategic move with a focus on maintaining control over her personal narrative and well-being.”

He 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.”

Discussing her decision to not allow people to comment on her current two posts, the expert added: “This move also aligns with a growing trend of celebrities and public figures taking more control over their online spaces, including adjusting their privacy settings to shield themselves from trolling and harmful comments.

“In a way, it’s about curating a healthier relationship with social media while still maintaining the ability to connect with her audience on her terms.”

Speaking about the impact of Meghan’s decision, he added: “While it’s true that disabling comments can limit direct interaction, 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.”

‘With Love, Meghan’ is set to air on Netflix on Wednesday, January 15.

The show will have eight 30-minute-long episodes. The series will also star some of Meghan’s celebrity friends – including her former Suits co-star Abigail Spencer.

The trailer, which teased what can be expected later this month, showed a variety of clips of Meghan as she cooks and hosts alongside famous celebrity friends.