The short version
- The Duchess of Sussex confirmed she received information about allegations against her father in 2018, shortly after her wedding to Prince Harry.
- Philippine authorities are conducting forensic examinations of digital evidence found at Thomas Markle's former residence, while he denies any wrongdoing.
- Meghan’s statement explains her decision to restrict contact between her father and their children as a protective measure based on prior assurances from police.
The Duchess of Sussex has publicly addressed recent reports concerning her estranged father, Thomas Markle, revealing that she was made aware of serious allegations against him in 2018. In a statement released following news that images alleged to depict child sexual abuse were discovered at his former residence in the Philippines, Meghan expressed deep distress over the developments. She emphasized that her thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed by such actions.
According to the duchess, a letter containing these disturbing allegations was sent to the Metropolitan Police in London during 2018 and subsequently shared with her. This disclosure occurred in the same year she married Prince Harry. Meghan stated that upon receiving this information, she was given assurances by authorities that the matter was under active investigation. She described the nature of the claims as profoundly sickening and expressed a hope that justice would be served while prioritizing the safety of innocent children.
The revelation provides context for the long-standing estrangement between Meghan and her father, as well as the absence of contact between Thomas Markle and Prince Harry’s two children. Meghan explained that she maintained distance from her father to protect her offspring, trusting that law enforcement agencies were taking appropriate steps to safeguard other families. She noted that this protective stance was a direct result of the information she received nearly eight years ago.
The allegations first emerged through reports by The Sun newspaper, which cited Thomas Markle Jr., Meghan’s half-brother. He claimed to have discovered the illicit images at his father’s home in the Philippines and reported the findings to local police. Thomas Markle Sr., who is based in the United States, has denied possessing any such material. The BBC has sought comment from both Thomas Markle and the Metropolitan Police regarding these developments.
In the Philippines, authorities have launched a formal investigation into the matter. Nicholas Ty, Undersecretary for the Department of Justice, confirmed that an anti-human trafficking and child sexual exploitation task force in Cebu is currently examining the case. Jonvic Remulla, the Interior Minister, stated that national police had secured Thomas Markle’s computer to conduct a comprehensive digital forensic examination. Investigators are analyzing the data to determine the full scope of the alleged criminal activities.
Remulla indicated that it would take approximately one week to obtain the results of the forensic analysis. The investigation aims to verify the authenticity and extent of the materials found at the property. Until these technical assessments are complete, the legal status of the allegations remains under review by Philippine judicial authorities.
The timing of Meghan’s statement has raised questions about the Sussexes’ decision to return to the United Kingdom in late summer. While their spokesman has not responded to inquiries regarding whether these family issues influenced their relocation from the United States, the renewed scrutiny adds a fresh dimension to the public understanding of their private lives. The couple had previously left royal duties in 2020, and their recent movements have drawn significant media attention.
Thomas Markle’s relationship with his daughter deteriorated significantly in the lead-up to her 2018 wedding. He was found to have collaborated with photographers, accepting payment to stage images of himself preparing for the event. This incident led to his withdrawal from the ceremony, citing health issues, and resulted in King Charles III walking Meghan down the aisle instead. The breakdown in their relationship has been a subject of public interest for years.
In 2025, Thomas Markle moved to the Philippines following a series of strokes. Reports indicate he is currently residing in a rehabilitation center in Florida, where he is undergoing treatment after having a leg amputated during surgery in December 2025. He is reportedly learning to walk again as part of his recovery process.
As the forensic investigation proceeds, the focus remains on determining the validity of the claims and ensuring that any potential victims receive appropriate support. The intersection of royal family dynamics and serious criminal allegations continues to draw international attention, with authorities in both the UK and Philippines playing key roles in the unfolding narrative.
Sources behind this briefing
Go to the original reporting
- BBC News↗Meghan says she was informed about 'disturbing allegations' against her father in 2018
