Nicki Minaj deletes Instagram after backlash erupts online

Nicki Minaj appears to have deleted her Instagram account, triggering another wave of conversation online as fans and critics link the move to mounting backlash over her recent public appearance. The rapper’s profile vanished shortly after clips circulated from a conservative political event where she made comments that many viewers described as deeply uncomfortable and poorly timed.

Minaj was a surprise guest at a Turning Point USA event in Phoenix on December 21, where she shared the stage with Erika Kirk. During her remarks, Minaj attempted to highlight what she described as positive male role models, referencing President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance. In doing so, she used the word assassin while speaking about Vance, a moment that visibly stunned the room. The comment landed awkwardly given that Kirk’s husband, political activist Charlie Kirk, was assassinated at a Turning Point event earlier this year.

Footage from the event shows Minaj pausing mid sentence, covering her mouth as she appeared to realise the gravity of the mistake. Erika Kirk quickly stepped in to defuse the moment, publicly reassuring Minaj and telling her she was not being judged. While the exchange ended politely on stage, the response online was far less forgiving.

Social media users criticised the comment as insensitive, with many calling it an avoidable and serious error. Others focused on Minaj’s broader political alignment, questioning her praise of Trump and Vance and arguing that her wealth and status have distanced her from everyday realities. The clip spread rapidly across platforms, fuelling debate about celebrity involvement in politics and accountability for public figures.

Shortly after the backlash intensified, Minaj’s Instagram page disappeared entirely. While it has not been confirmed whether the account was permanently deleted or temporarily deactivated, the timing raised eyebrows. Some fans pointed out that Minaj has a history of taking breaks from Instagram, including a brief disappearance earlier this year. Others believe the move signals an attempt to step back from the noise as criticism mounted.

As of now, Minaj has not issued a statement addressing the comments or her Instagram status.