Meghan Markle has reportedly been struggling in the wake of her estranged father Thomas Markle Sr.’s ongoing scandal.
“It’s a very, very difficult and painful moment for her. And from talking to people close to her, she’s been in bits,” Hello! royal editor Emily Nash claimed on the latest episode of the outlet’s “Right Royal” podcast, referring to Meghan’s state of mind. “She’s really struggling.”
Last month, Meghan’s half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., alleged that he discovered child sex abuse material (CSAM) inside his father’s Philippines home. (Thomas Sr. has vehemently denied the accusations, calling the claims “sick lies” in a statement to the Daily Mail.)
Meghan, 45, who has been estranged from her dad, 82, since 2018, presumably found support and solace in her inner circle. (Us has reached out to a rep for the Duchess of Sussex for comment regarding Hello!’s report.)
“They’re surrounded by some close friends. She has other friends checking in with her daily,” Nash stated, referring to Meghan, her husband, Prince Harry, and the couple’s two children. “Whatever your feelings about her … you cannot help but feel some sympathy for her being caught up in this situation which is way beyond her control and deeply, deeply troubling.”
Meghan previously issued a statement regarding the “deeply disturbing” accusations.
“In 2018, a letter was sent to the Metropolitan Police and Royalty and Specialist Protection. That letter was subsequently shared with me. It made troubling and disturbing allegations against my father and I was given assurances that these were being investigated,” Meghan said in October. “I am deeply distressed at the news that has come to light in the last 24 hours, and my thoughts are with any children who may have been harmed.”
She continued, “Although the breadth of what has now been uncovered is more sickening than one could ever imagine, my sincerest hope is that justice will be fully served and that the priority remains the safety and protection of innocent children.”
Weeks later, Meghan shared a personal life update via her As Ever holiday catalog.
“This year has reminded me how much joy can be found in the moments that make up a life,” the Suits alum wrote at the time. “Evening snuggles with my children. Harvest baskets gathered for friends. Travel and adventure, time in the garden, building this business and sketching away at all the details, both big and small. A summer filled with laughter, wine and melting ice cream cones, followed by an autumn of new adventures. All of it has mattered. All of it has felt meaningful.”
If you or someone you know is experiencing child abuse, call or text Child Help Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.
