Why an Instagram Model With 800,000 Followers Is Quitting Social Media

Teen blasts the endless chase for 'likes'

Social media has given 18-year-old Essena O'Neill a massive platform. She amassed nearly 800,000 followers on Instagram and another 270,000 on YouTube and even earned a modeling contract with one of the biggest agencies in Australia.

But now, she's leaving all that behind.

In a tearful video on her YouTube page, O'Neill renounced social media and went on a tirade about how harmful the need for followers and likes is to young people, especially women. "I let myself be defined by numbers," she said.

AW+

WORK SMARTER - LEARN, GROW AND BE INSPIRED.

Subscribe today!

To Read the Full Story Become an Adweek+ Subscriber

View Subscription Options

Already a member? Sign in