Olivia Cooke reveals why she quit Instagram over its impact on self-image
The actress says algorithms and online culture played a role in her decision to leave the platform
Olivia Cooke has revealed why she stepped away from Instagram, saying the platform’s culture and algorithms affected the way people view themselves.
The House of the Dragon actress explained that she became uncomfortable with the increasing focus on appearance and self-improvement trends online, which she believes can distort people’s perception of their own bodies and identities.
Speaking to The Guardian, Cooke said she was frustrated by the way social media encourages constant self-comparison.
“I was sick of seeing 21-year-old looksmaxxers being like: ‘If you follow a program, this is what you can do,’” she said, describing the online transformation content she often encountered.
“It’s a lot. It’s very navel-gazy, and it distorts your mental image of your body and your self. And I think that has trickled into our industry, as well.”
However, leaving Instagram has not completely shielded Cooke from online negativity. The actress also opened up about receiving harsh reactions from some House of the Dragon fans because of her character Alicent Hightower.
Cooke said some fans have approached her for photos before criticizing the character she plays.
“It can be quite vitriolic at times,” she said. “I don’t want this to come across as ‘Woe is me’, because I’m very grateful for the job.”
She recalled moments when fans asked for pictures before expressing their dislike for Alicent.
“They want a picture with you, then afterwards, they’ll say, ‘I f****** hate your character, by the way,’” she said.
Cooke added that she tries to handle those situations with humor, saying she simply tells them they can delete the photo if they feel that way.
The actress also reflected on the viral moment she shared with co-star Emma D'Arcy during early promotions for House of the Dragon, when their conversation about a favorite drink became an internet sensation.
Cooke admitted it was surprising that the clip became one of her most recognized moments.
“I just think it was interesting that in our attention-deficit economy, that after a very wide-ranging career, that was the thing I was most notable for,” she said.
The viral attention eventually faded, and Cooke joked that she may have briefly stopped using the phrase “stunnin’” because of the sudden spotlight.
“It was just very bizarre,” she said.
