Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made their first public appearance together in Brussels since Meghan's father, Thomas Markle Sr., was arrested in Florida on November 6. The couple arrived at the European Parliament on Tuesday morning to attend the unveiling of the Lost Screen Memorial. Meghan wore an all-black outfit, while Harry opted for a dark suit.
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex walked hand in hand past waiting reporters but did not stop to answer questions. Meghan maintained a serious expression as they attended the event, which focused on protecting children from online harm.
Meghan Markle Withdrew From Her Planned Speech in Brussels
Meghan and Harry had originally been expected to speak together at the event. However, on November 9, it was announced that Meghan would no longer deliver her planned address. According to a source speaking to The Telegraph, She's just not strong enough, emotionally, to be doing any public speaking right now." The comment has not been independently confirmed by Meghan or her representatives.
Instead, Harry delivered the keynote address on children's digital safety. He also participated in a panel discussion titled "Beyond Promises: Building a Digital Future That Works for Children." The Brussels appearance marked the couple's first joint public engagement abroad since returning to the United Kingdom for an extended stay in August.
Moving Back to the United Kingdom Changed the Family's Daily Life
In August 2026, the Sussexes announced plans to return to the United Kingdom for an extended stay after six years in California. Their children, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet, were enrolled in a British school when the family arrived. However, the children were withdrawn just two days into the new school term following discussions with the family's security team.
On October 15, Meghan and Harry made their first joint public appearance since the move, visiting three charities in Nottingham that support children, young people and families. Since then, the couple have kept much of their family life private.
Thomas Markle Sr. Was Arrested in Florida
Thomas Markle Sr., 82, was arrested in Lakeland, Florida, on November 6, 2026. He faces one federal count of possessing child sexual abuse material. According to the US Department of Justice, investigators allege that he kept sexually explicit images, including photographs of himself with prepubescent girls, in two storage units in the Los Angeles area that he had rented for nearly two decades.
Following his arrest, Markle appeared in federal court in Tampa and was released pending further proceedings. Investigators reportedly seized approximately 78 items, including slides, film negatives and books containing suspected illegal material. On November 10, a judge ordered a psychiatric examination, citing concerns related to Markle's age, health and ability to recall information.
The allegations remain accusations, and Markle is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
