Thomas Markle Jr has issued an apology to his half-sister Meghan Markle after years of public criticism, following allegations that their father, Thomas Markle Sr, possessed child sexual abuse images. In a statement reported by The Sun, Thomas Jr said: "I'm so, so sorry Meghan. I now know I have been protecting the wrong person for the past nine years."
Apology after years of criticism
Thomas Jr, who had repeatedly defended their father and targeted the Duchess of Sussex, said he feels "ashamed" to have taken his father's side. He added: "Having seen what I have seen, I believe the man I've been defending and caring for is a monster. I now know exactly why you don't talk to him any more and why you won't let him meet Harry or his grandchildren."
He continued: "And I'm ashamed that I spent years taking his side when you fell out with him. I know we're not close but I can still remember holding you when you were a baby and looking after you when you were small. So please accept my apology and know that I wish you and your family all the best for the future."
Allegations against Thomas Markle Sr
Thomas Jr claimed to have uncovered "hundreds, if not thousands" of explicit images and videos inside boxes at his father's former home in Cebu, Philippines. The allegations came while the 82-year-old was receiving medical treatment in the US. Thomas Sr is alleged to have kept the images at his home in the Philippines.
The claims are now being investigated by the Philippines Department of Justice's anti-trafficking and online sexual abuse task force. The FBI has confirmed it is aware of the allegations, while the Metropolitan Police confirmed they received a letter in January 2019 containing a "number of claims about alleged offending outside the United Kingdom" regarding Thomas Sr.
Family reaction and investigation
A source close to the Duchess of Sussex said: "Now maybe people will finally understand why she has had nothing to do with her father since 2018." Meghan released an official statement expressing that she is "deeply distressed" by the allegations, adding that her thoughts are with any potentially harmed children and that she supports the ongoing investigation.
Thomas Jr said: "When I found this material I was horrified and I had no option but to report my dad. I have supported, cared for him and helped him for years — but that stops now. I won't speak to my father ever again unless I'm called to give evidence against him."
Thomas Sr, who has repeatedly criticised his daughter and Prince Harry in televised interviews, left his home in the Philippines to return to the USA in May. He had previously suffered a stroke and had a blood clot that led to the emergency amputation of his left leg in December 2025. Thomas Jr reportedly told one friend following the alleged discovery: "What I saw made me sick to the stomach — all this stuff was just dumped on me and I didn't know what to do. I knew right away it was highly illegal and would land me in jail for a long time if I didn't get rid of it. I felt betrayed, angry and disgusted — and realised I had to report him."
