Key Takeaways
- Thomas Markle Jr. contacted authorities after allegedly finding hundreds and potentially thousands of child sexual abuse images and videos among his father Thomas Markle Sr.’s belongings in Cebu, Philippines.
- Thomas Jr. said the discovery ended their relationship and that he would speak to his father again only if called to give evidence against him.
- Police reportedly opened an inquiry, but authorities have announced no charges or official findings.
Meghan Markle's estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., has reportedly been referred to authorities over allegations that a large collection of child sexual abuse material was discovered among his belongings in the Philippines. The disturbing claims reportedly came to light after his own son contacted police.
As reported by The Daily Beast, Thomas Markle Jr. told investigators he found boxes containing hundreds, potentially thousands, of images and videos while sorting through family possessions in Cebu.
Police are reportedly investigating the 82-year-old retired Hollywood lighting director since his son reported him. Thomas Jr. said the discovery left him horrified and prompted him to contact authorities.
"I have supported, cared for him and helped him for years — but that stops now," he said, according to the report.
He also said the discovery permanently damaged their relationship: "I won't speak to my father ever again unless I'm called to give evidence against him."
The report alleges that Thomas Jr. first contacted the FBI and authorities in Pennsylvania in July, then raised his concerns with detectives in Cebu. It further claims that investigators were preparing to obtain the reported evidence.
No criminal charges have been announced, and the allegations have not been established in court. Thomas Sr. has not publicly responded to the allegations.
Thomas Sr. relocated to the Philippines in 2025 with his son. His health has reportedly deteriorated significantly, including complications from a stroke and a blood clot that resulted in the amputation of his left leg.
The allegations represent a serious new development involving a family already familiar with public controversy.
Meghan, 45, has been estranged from her father since around her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry.
Their relationship deteriorated after Thomas Sr. participated in staged paparazzi photographs ahead of the ceremony. He subsequently withdrew from attending the wedding, citing medical problems, and has repeatedly discussed his daughter in media interviews.
Thomas Sr. later disputed parts of those accounts, and has also publicly said he wants to reconcile with Meghan and meet her children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
"I have never stopped loving her," he previously said. "I don't want to die estranged from Meghan."
If you suspect child sexual exploitation or trafficking, help is available. In the United States, reports of suspected child sexual abuse material can be submitted to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children's CyberTipline at CyberTipline.org or by calling 1-800-843-5678. For confidential assistance or to report suspected human trafficking, contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733.
