Can I still follow celebrities on Instagram as a Muslim?
It depends on who you follow and what they post. Following a public figure isn't haram in itself. But your feed shapes your heart, so unfollow accounts that regularly show immodest images, mock faith or pull you toward a lifestyle you're trying to leave.
Following isn't the problem, the feed is
Instagram is built around looking. If a celebrity mostly posts their work, sport, cooking, travel or charity, following them is generally fine. If their account is mostly revealing photos, partying or flaunting, then every scroll puts haram images in front of you. Allah tells believers to lower their gaze:
The next verse (Quran 24:31) gives women the same command. Choosing to follow an account means choosing to see its content again and again, so the gaze question applies directly.
Who you admire matters
The Prophet ﷺ said a person will be with those he loves (Sahih al-Bukhari 6168). He also said a person is on the religion of his close friend, so look at whom you befriend (Sunan Abi Dawud 4833). Celebrities aren't your friends, but hours of watching them can quietly shape your values, your spending and how you see your own body and life.
A quick check for each account
- Modesty: does it often show images I should lower my gaze from?
- Effect: do I feel more grateful, or more jealous and dissatisfied, after looking?
- Values: does it make haram look normal or cool?
- Time: does it keep me scrolling when I meant to do something else?
Muting is a gentle option if unfollowing feels like a big deal. See Is endless scrolling a waste of time in Islam? and What should I do if I see haram content on my feed?
- Following public figures isn't haram in itself.
- Unfollow accounts that regularly post immodest content.
- Your feed shapes your values and heart.
- Replace, don't just remove: follow beneficial accounts.
People also ask
Is it haram to like someone's photo on Instagram?
No, not in itself. Liking decent posts is fine, but avoid liking immodest or haram content, or using likes to flirt.
Read the full answer →Can I chat with the opposite gender online as a Muslim?
It depends. Respectful chats for work, study or real needs are fine. Flirting and aimless private DMs with the opposite gender are not.
Read the full answer →Is endless scrolling a waste of time in Islam?
Yes, when it's aimless and takes hours. Relaxing is allowed, but free time is a blessing, so open apps with a purpose and a limit.
Read the full answer →How do I deal with social media addiction as a Muslim?
Treat it as a habit to retrain: cut triggers, replace scrolling with better habits, use prayer times as breaks, and ask Allah for help.
Read the full answer →What should I do if I see haram content on my feed?
Look away, scroll past and train your feed. The first glance is forgiven; don't linger or share it, and use hide, mute and report tools.
Read the full answer →