The Royal Family are likely to feel "some sympathy" for Meghan Markle as she deals with the fallout from her father's arrest last week, according to a royal expert, but it will not heal the long-running rift with Prince Harry.
The Duchess of Sussex has had a fractured relationship with her husband's royal relatives for years, particularly since she stepped down from royal duties in 2020. The 45-year-old has since used televised and published interviews to share her views on royal life, even accusing the family of not helping her with her mental health when she was pregnant with Prince Archie. Both Meghan and Harry spoke about their experience in the Firm on their Netflix series, Harry & Meghan, in 2022.
Arrest and estrangement
Thomas Markle Snr, whom Meghan has been estranged from for many years, was arrested and charged last week in connection with allegations involving purported child sex abuse material, which he has called "sick lies". The 82-year-old has not seen his youngest daughter in many years, and he has never met Prince Harry, Prince Archie, or Princess Lilibet.
Speaking to the Daily Express, US-based royal expert Marlene Koenig said she believes the royals will show compassion for Meghan during this difficult time. She added that, even if they hold some sympathy for the Duchess, they are unlikely to see this as a way to reunite and end their years-long feud.
Expert's view on the feud
Koenig said: "There may be some sympathy for Meghan within the Royal Family, but that does not mean doors will open for either of them. Learning that Meghan’s father is an alleged paedophile does not ameliorate the tensions and issues that face [Prince Harry and Prince William]."
She added that she can't imagine this changing anything in the feud between Harry and his brother, who is the heir to the throne. Koenig believes William will just continue to focus on his wife, their three children, and his father. She added: "William will continue to do his thing as heir to the throne and support his wife, children, and his father, the King."
Christmas plans and Brussels visit
Harry and Meghan are thought to be gearing up to spend their first Christmas in the UK with their children this year. The couple made the decision to move back to the UK at the end of August, with their children now enrolled at a school in Britain.
Meghan and Harry paid a visit to Brussels earlier this week to attend the opening of the Lost Screen Memorial at the European Parliament on Tuesday. While Harry delivered a speech, Meghan opted out of joining him just hours before as she didn't feel "strong enough" to carry out public speaking after her dad's arrest.
