Barry Kogan, the critically acclaimed Irish actor known for his roles in films like The Banshees of Inisherin and The Killing of a Sacred Deer, has deactivated his Instagram account following a distressing episode of online harassment targeting his family.
Kogan, wo has a strong presence on social media and frequently shares glimpses of his personal life and professional achievements, took the step after trolls directed hateful comments toward his young son and grandmother. The 31-year-old actor confirmed the reason behind his decision, saying, “When it comes to me, I can handle it, but when people start targeting my son and grandmother, that’s crossing a line.”
His candid remarks have highlighted the increasingly invasive and toxic behaviour that public figures often endure in the digital age, even as they strive to shield their loved ones from the fallout of their fame—a stark reminder of the dark side of social media.
Kogan, who has amassed a substantial fan base for his talent and authenticity, often shares moments with his family, particularly his young son Brando. These posts have allowed fans to see a softer, more personal side of the actor, but they have also made his family vulnerable to the darker elements of social media.
The actor did not specify the exact nature of the harassment, but sources close to him indicated that the comments were deeply personal and inappropriate. This intrusion into his private life, coupled with the targeting of his son and grandmother, left Kogan no choice but to temporarily step away from a platform that once served as a positive space for him to connect with fans.
This incident has sparked a broader conversation about the price of fame and the responsibilities of social media companies to protect users, especially public figures, from such targeted abuse. While Kogan’s choice to deactivate his account was likely made to preserve his family’s privacy and peace of mind, it underscores a growing problem in the online world.
The Actor’s Unwavering Devotion to Family
Kogan has always been vocal about his love for his family, often crediting them as his anchor amidst the turbulence of a demanding career in Hollywood. His son Brando, whom he welcomed in August 2022 with his partner Allison Sandro, is a frequent feature in his public life. Additionally, Kogan has often spoken about his grandmother having had a profound influence on him, especially during his early years in Dublin.
For Kogan, the decision to step back from Instagram was not just about protecting his family but also about setting boundaries. His fans have primarily supported his move, flooding other platforms with messages of understanding and urging the actor to prioritize his mental well-being and that of his family.
Celebrity Harassment: A Widespread Issue
The incident involving Kogan is far from isolated. Public figures frequently face abuse and harassment online, with their families often becoming collateral damage. High-profile cases, including those involving actors, athletes, and musicians, have highlighted the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to curb online bullying.
Many celebrities have spoken out about the emotional toll of such harassment in recent years. Platforms like Instagram have introduced tools to combat this, such as comment filters and the ability to block or report abusive users. However, more than these measures are needed, especially for individuals whose visibility makes them frequent targets.
Looking Ahead
Kogan’s decision to deactivate his Instagram account is a stark reminder of the boundaries that must be respected, regardless of someone’s fame. It also serves as a call to action for fans and platforms to foster healthier online environments.
For now, Kogan’s focus remains on his family and career as he continues to navigate the complexities of life in the spotlight. Fans of the actor hope to see him return to social media when the time feels right for him, but his bold stand against harassment sends a clear message: no one, no matter how famous, should have to tolerate abuse that impacts their loved ones.