Meghan Markle Father Child Porn: Police Investigation Opens

Police in the Philippines have opened an investigation into Thomas Markle, father of Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, after his son reported discovering what he described as hundreds of images and videos of child sexual abuse at his father's home in Cebu. The Meghan Markle father child porn probe began after Thomas Markle Jr. tipped off authorities, according to reports by British tabloid The Sun and Dutch public broadcaster NOS. Meghan Markle has said she is 'deeply saddened' by the allegations.

Background: Estranged family and past allegations

Meghan Markle has been estranged from her father for years. Thomas Markle Sr. missed her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry, and the two have not spoken publicly since. The Duchess of Sussex family drama has long been tabloid fodder, but the new allegations mark a serious criminal turn. Meghan said that in 2018, British police had already informed her of 'disturbing and shocking allegations against my father', though the details of those allegations remain unclear.

What did Thomas Markle Jr. find?

Thomas Markle Jr., 60, told The Sun he was searching for a phone in his father's house in Cebu when he came across a 15-minute video showing naked young girls. He then found more disturbing material, including videos of sexual acts and books filled with photos of undressed girls. Markle Jr. said the victims often appeared to be no older than 10 or 11 years old. He recognized one room in a laptop video as his father's home in Rosarito, Mexico, where Thomas Markle Sr. lived between 2016 and 2025.

'I had no choice but to report my father,' Markle Jr. told The Sun. 'I supported, cared for and helped him for years, but that ends now. I will never speak to my father again unless I am called to testify against him.'

Child sexual abuse reporting laws vary by country, but Markle Jr. contacted police in the Philippines, the FBI, and Pennsylvania police, where his father previously lived. He also reached out to a U.S. non-profit that works to locate missing children.

Meghan Markle's response

Meghan Markle, via a spokesperson, said she was deeply affected by the news about her father. 'My thoughts are with all the children who may have suffered harm,' she said. She added that she hopes people now understand why she broke contact with her father and why he is not allowed to see her two children.

Family denial and backlash

Samantha Markle, Meghan's 61-year-old half-sister, dismissed the allegations as 'sick lies' in an interview with The Daily Mail. She accused Thomas Markle Jr. of being motivated by money and running a vendetta against their father. 'There is absolutely no basis for these disgusting accusations. My brother wants to destroy our father. Shame on you, brother,' she said.

Thomas Markle Sr., 82, is currently in a care home in Florida recovering from a stroke he suffered in 2022. He has not publicly responded to the allegations. A U.S. investigation may also follow, according to NOS.

What happens next in the investigation?

The Philippines police have not released further details, but the case highlights the international coordination often required in child sexual abuse material investigations. Authorities in multiple jurisdictions may examine digital evidence, and Thomas Markle Sr. could face charges if evidence is confirmed. Because he is in the United States, extradition or parallel U.S. proceedings are possible.

Key timeline

• 2016–2025: Thomas Markle Sr. lives in Rosarito, Mexico.
• 2022: Thomas Markle Sr. suffers a stroke.
• 2025: Thomas Markle Sr. moves to Cebu, Philippines.
• October 23, 2026: Thomas Markle Jr. reports alleged child abuse images; Philippines police open investigation.

FAQ

What is the allegation against Meghan Markle's father?

Thomas Markle Jr. alleges his father possessed hundreds or thousands of images and videos of child sexual abuse, found in his Cebu, Philippines home.

Has Thomas Markle Sr. been charged?

No charges have been announced. Police in the Philippines have opened an investigation, and U.S. authorities have been notified.

What has Meghan Markle said?

Meghan Markle said she is 'deeply saddened' and that her thoughts are with children who may have been harmed. She said the news explains her estrangement from her father.

How did authorities learn about the alleged material?

Thomas Markle Jr. reported his findings to Philippines police, the FBI, Pennsylvania police, and a U.S. non-profit focused on missing children.

Where is Thomas Markle Sr. now?

He is in a care home in Florida, recovering from a stroke suffered in 2022.