Kanye West Returns to Instagram After 8-Month Hiatus Amid Speculation of New Album Promotion
Renowned rapper Kanye West has made a triumphant return to Instagram after an eight-month absence from the platform. The music mogul reactivated his account in the early hours of Sunday (December 17), sparking speculation about his motive.
As of the latest update, Kanye West’s Instagram profile is devoid of any posts, and he is currently following only one person—Justin Laboy—while boasting a vast following of nearly 19 million users.
The resurgence on Instagram has fueled speculation that West’s return is strategically timed to promote his upcoming collaborative album with Ty Dolla $ign. Although no official confirmation has been provided, fans are eagerly anticipating updates from the influential artist.
Kanye West’s departure from Instagram dates back to April, where he chose to deactivate his account without providing a clear explanation for the hiatus. The rapper had posted an image of the account cancellation form on April 18, hinting at his decision to step away. Minutes later, he followed through with the deactivation, leaving fans curious about the reasons behind his social media break.
This isn’t the first instance of Kanye West temporarily exiting Instagram, as he previously deactivated his account in October 2018 and again in September 2020. The latter move was in response to the backlash he faced following a controversial Saturday Night Live performance and his public support for Donald Trump, symbolized by his wearing of a red MAGA hat.
Recent history shows that Kanye faced suspension on Instagram in October 2022 due to antisemitic remarks and later on Twitter in December 2022, following a post containing a Swastika. These incidents, coupled with infighting among West’s campaign staffers, contributed to his decision to lay low. Reports suggest that the rapper has abandoned plans for a 2024 presidential run, focusing instead on his family, including his wife, Bianca Censori, and his commitment to The Donda Academy.
In a statement to documentary filmmaker Adam Camacho, who was documenting West’s presidential campaign, the artist expressed his desire for privacy, stating, “Right now, I am living my life — like I’m concentrating on the school, The Donda Academy, and my new wife, and my kids, and that’s it. I just want to be left alone.”
