Meghan Markle Withdraws From Major Speech With Prince Harry Following Father’s Arrest

Meghan Markle has reportedly pulled out of a planned joint speech with Prince Harry at the European Parliament in Brussels after her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., was arrested in the United States on a federal charge involving child sexual abuse material. The Duchess of Sussex is still expected to attend the event on November 10, 2026, but Harry will now deliver the keynote address alone.

The couple had been scheduled to speak at the opening of the Lost Screen Memorial, an installation honoring children and young people who have died after experiencing online harm. The event is intended to draw attention to the dangers children face on social media and the importance of stronger digital protections. Harry is also expected to participate in a panel discussion titled “Beyond Promises: Building A Digital Future That Works For Children.”

According to a source quoted by The Telegraph, Meghan did not feel emotionally ready to speak publicly following the arrest of her father. Her spokesperson confirmed that she would travel to Brussels with Harry and accompany him to the event, but would not deliver a speech. The appearance is expected to be her first public engagement since the allegations against Thomas became public.

Thomas Markle Sr., 82, was arrested in Florida on November 6 following an FBI investigation into suspected child sexual abuse material. Federal authorities said investigators seized approximately 78 items, including slides, film negatives and books, from storage units in the Los Angeles area. He faces one federal count of possessing child sexual abuse material. After appearing in court, he was released under conditions that include home detention and electronic monitoring.

The case has also raised questions about Thomas’s ability to participate in the legal proceedings. A federal judge ordered an independent psychiatric evaluation after expressing concerns about his health, memory and ability to understand the charges. He has not entered a plea, and the allegations have not yet been tested at trial. Thomas has denied wrongdoing, describing the accusations as false.

Meghan previously issued a statement saying she was deeply distressed by the allegations and expressing concern for any children who may have been harmed. She also explained that her estrangement from her father and her decision to prevent him from having contact with her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, were intended to protect them. While Harry is expected to continue speaking about children’s online safety, Meghan’s decision to step back has brought renewed attention to the difficult family circumstances surrounding the royal couple’s visit.

Source: The Sun