Meghan Markle has reportedly been reduced to tears over allegations involving her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., as she and Prince Harry seek time away with their children.
The couple has traveled overseas with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet for a brief getaway with close friends.
“She keeps on looking at Lili and she’s in tears, and thinking about all the children, the alleged victims,” a friend told HELLO!.
Thomas is being investigated following allegations involving child sexual abuse images allegedly discovered at his home in the Philippines. His son, Thomas Markle Jr., claims he found the material. Thomas Sr. has denied any wrongdoing.
According to Meghan’s friend, the Duchess had already planned to withdraw from media coverage for her mental well-being before the allegations became public. However, messages from friends expressing sympathy have reportedly left her overwhelmed.
“It’s just been an emotional rollercoaster for her,” the friend said.
Meghan previously said she cut ties with her father because she was concerned for her family’s safety but she was dragged in the media over her decision. Several major media outlets platformed Thomas and Meghan’s half-siblings, who tried to turn the public against her, and succeeded.
In a recent statement, she said she chose to prevent Thomas from seeing Archie and Lilibet “for one reason: to protect them.”
The Duchess also expressed hope that authorities would prioritize children who may have been harmed.
“I trusted that the authorities were doing the same for other families,” she said.
