Sky News paused its live coverage on Saturday to issue an update from the Sussex household, revealing that Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, is feeling "very, very distressed" after her father, Thomas Markle, was arrested in Florida.
The 82-year-old was placed under house detention at his assisted living facility after being charged over possession of child sex abuse material. The US Department of Justice (DoJ) said he was arrested on a federal complaint alleging he held images that show child sex abuse. He has previously denied allegations of possessing such images, calling them "sick lies".
Royal commentator shares insight
Hosts Anna Jones and Kamali Melbourne were joined by royal commentator Jennie Bond on their breakfast show. Bond said there will be "a great deal more sympathy" for the Duchess of Sussex following the arrest.
Sky News host Anna began: "There's been no comment from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex as far as I'm aware to this latest development. But Meghan has said since the allegations first emerged that she hoped it could be understood why she cut off her father in the past. What's your view on what this story does on understanding of Meghan and perhaps have sympathy for Meghan?"
Jennie replied: "I think there will be a great deal more sympathy for her now as there should be because she's had this ghastly secret that she was told not to tell anyone about for legal reasons. She has been carrying that burden and it's a very heavy burden for her."
Meghan's state of mind
The royal correspondent explained she spoke to sources close to Meghan hours ago. "I spoke to someone very close to her shortly before this arrest," Jennie explained, "but already there were severe allegations against her father."
She continued: "This was just 48 hours ago. [Meghan] was said to be ok. As well as can be expected in the circumstances. Sounds a bit like a hospital patient, doesn't it?"
Jennie added, "She is very, very distressed. Enormous distress. Her feelings, I'm told, are very much she's appalled at the suffering young children may or may not have been put through. And her thoughts are with the [families]."
Impact on upcoming engagements
Sky News presenter Kamali questioned if the allegations against her dad will impact the Sussexes' work with children who have been vocal about online safety. Jennie explained that both Prince Harry and Meghan are due in Brussels on Wednesday.
"They are attending an event about online child safety and the dangers online," she remarked. "The irony is profound, honestly."
The commentator continued: "I'm told she is determined to go ahead with this. Obviously, she is feeling quite fragile." The pair are expected to make a joint speech but Meghan has reportedly declined attending a panel discussion. Jennie added, "I'm told she doesn't know how she'll be feeling in that moment on that day."
