Meghan Markle and Prince Harry made their first joint public appearance since her father, Thomas Markle Sr., was arrested in Florida. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex traveled to Brussels, Belgium, on November 10 to open the Lost Screen Memorial, and the appearance came just four days after Thomas’s arrest.
Meghan Markle steps out with Prince Harry after father’s arrest
Meghan chose an all-black outfit for the occasion, while Harry wore a dark suit. The couple arrived at the European Parliament around 8 a.m. local time. They walked hand in hand but did not respond to reporters’ questions.
One reporter asked Meghan how she was feeling and coping. However, the Duchess did not stop to answer. Their appearance marked a difficult moment for the couple, who have faced renewed attention surrounding Thomas Markle arrest.
The couple attended the unveiling of the Lost Screen Memorial, an installation highlighting the dangers children face online. It featured 50 smartphone screens displaying photographs of children who lost their lives following harmful experiences linked to social media.
The images came from parents in the Archewell Foundation Parents’ Network. Through the memorial, families hope to raise awareness and encourage safer digital spaces for young people.
Harry delivered a keynote address about protecting children online. Meghan was initially expected to join him in delivering remarks. However, reports on November 9 revealed that she would no longer speak at the event.
A source told The Telegraph that Meghan was not emotionally ready for public speaking. Harry also participated in a panel discussion titled “Beyond Promises: Building a Digital Future That Works for Children.”
Thomas Markle Sr., 82, was arrested in Florida on November 6. According to the U.S. Department of Justice, he faces one federal count of possessing child sexual abuse material. He could face up to 20 years in prison if convicted. However, he has not entered a plea, and the charge remains an allegation.
The Brussels trip also marked Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s first official joint overseas engagement since their return to the U.K. in August. They previously appeared together in Nottingham on October 15.
Despite the personal circumstances, the couple continued with their planned engagement, keeping the focus on children’s online safety.
