Veteran Nollywood actress Ireti Doyle has expressed deep concern over the growing toxicity of social media, revealing that the online space has become too overwhelming for her peace of mind.
The 58-year-old screen icon, who has been noticeably absent from the public eye for several months, made a rare return to Instagram to share an emotional message about her decision to withdraw from the digital world.
“I used to wonder what I’d do with myself once I became an ‘empty nester’… now I know. Had to disappear again. The streets of social media (nay, the world in general) is becoming too toxic for my quiet soul,” she wrote. “How have you been? I hope you’re protecting yourself?”
Her words struck a chord with fans who have missed her online presence and admired her honesty about mental well-being in an increasingly negative digital climate.
Born on May 3, 1967, in Ondo State, Ireti Doyle has built an illustrious career spanning decades in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. After spending her formative years in Boston, United States, she returned to Nigeria to study Theatre Arts at the University of Jos a decision that paved the way for a remarkable journey in film and television.
Doyle began her career as a producer and presenter, notably creating and hosting the highly popular fashion and lifestyle show Oge with Iretiola, which ran for a decade. She also hosted Morning Ride on Silverbird Television before fully transitioning into acting.
Her breakthrough in Nollywood came in the late 1990s, with standout roles in critically acclaimed films such as Sitanda (2006), Across the Niger (2009), and Torn (2013). Over the years, she has earned a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most refined performers, backed by numerous awards including a Best Supporting Actress win at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA).
Once married to veteran broadcaster Patrick Doyle, their union eventually ended in divorce.
While Ireti Doyle’s retreat from social media may have left a void among fans who adore her grace and wisdom, her candid reflection sheds light on the growing pressures public figures face in maintaining their peace in a world where online noise can drown out authenticity.
Her return to Instagram may have been brief, but her message was loud and clear sometimes, silence is the only way to preserve one’s sanity.
