Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry appeared together at the European Parliament in Brussels on Tuesday, November 10. The occasion was the unveiling of the Lost Screen Memorial, an installation commemorating children who have died following online harm.
It was Meghan's first public appearance since her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., was arrested in Florida and charged with possession of child sexual abuse material.
Meghan Canceled Her Planned Speech at the Event
The Duchess had originally been scheduled to deliver a speech alongside Prince Harry. However, she ultimately withdrew from the speaking program. A source familiar with her reasoning told The Telegraph that Meghan was not emotionally strong enough to speak publicly at the moment. A spokeswoman confirmed that she would accompany Harry to the event but would not speak.
Her appearance nevertheless drew attention, particularly because of her reserved demeanor.
Meghan's Body Language in Brussels Appeared Reserved
Upon arriving at the European Parliament, Meghan did not respond to reporters' questions. When journalists called out asking about her father, the couple continued walking.
According to The Express, body language expert Judi James described Meghan's gestures as conveying a sense of "fragility and vulnerability." She pointed out that the Duchess did not display her usual broad arrival smile and appeared more reserved than during previous public engagements.
James also highlighted Meghan's left hand, which remained tucked inside her coat pocket. She interpreted this as a potentially protective gesture rather than the relaxed pose Meghan has displayed on other occasions. The expert also suggested that Meghan's eyes conveyed sadness and a more reflective mood.
Harry Appeared to Take the Lead During Their Appearance
A noticeable dynamic emerged as the couple arrived. Harry walked slightly ahead of Meghan, held her hand, and appeared to guide her through the press area. According to James, his posture suggested a protective and cautious demeanor.
The expert also noted that Harry looked down as they entered and briefly stroked his beard, a gesture she described as a possible self-soothing behavior.
The couple remained close throughout their visit. Meghan later sat in the audience during Harry's speech and was also seen comforting Sandra Spitaels, a mother whose teenage son died by suicide after experiencing online harm.
Thomas Markle Sr. Was Charged in Florida
The appearance came amid renewed attention surrounding Meghan's estranged father. Thomas Markle Sr. was arrested in Florida and charged with possession of child sexual abuse material. He appeared in court on Friday, November 6, and has previously denied the allegations.
After his initial court appearance, he was placed under house arrest and fitted with an electronic monitoring device. However, on Tuesday, November 10, he was ordered to jail after allegedly removing the device from his ankle.
