Veteran Nigerian actress Ireti Doyle says she has taken a step back from social media, describing the online space as increasingly “toxic” for her peace of mind.
Gatekeepers News reports that the 58-year-old film star, who had been noticeably absent from social platforms in recent weeks, explained her reasons in a reflective post shared on Instagram.
In the post, Doyle also touched on her experience transitioning into a new phase of life — that of an “empty nester,” a parent whose children have grown and left home.
“I used to wonder what I’d do with myself once I become an ‘empty nester’… now I know,” she wrote.
“Had to disappear again. The streets of SM (nay, the world in general) is becoming too toxic for my quiet soul. How have you been? I hope you’re protecting yourself?”
Doyle, born on May 3, 1967, in Ondo State, is a respected figure in Nigerian film and television. She spent part of her childhood in Boston, USA, before returning to Nigeria, where she earned a degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Jos.
Her career began in broadcasting, producing and hosting the long-running fashion and lifestyle programme ‘Oge with Iretiola’ for a decade, as well as presenting shows like Morning Ride on STV.
She later transitioned fully into acting, earning critical acclaim for roles in films such as Sitanda (2006), Across the Niger (2009), and Torn (2013).
Over the years, Doyle has received numerous honours, including the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) for Best Supporting Actress.
She was previously married to veteran broadcaster Patrick Doyle, but the marriage ended in divorce.
