Exclusive: How Meghan Markle Is Protecting Her Mental Health Amid Child Porn Allegations

Stepping back from social media

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are not personally using Instagram, according to royal journalist Andrea Caamano. She said staff help manage and publish material for their accounts, allowing the couple to step away for mental health reasons.

Caamano expects Meghan to return to social media soon and share what has brought her joy recently. She also said the couple’s trip away from the UK began before news of the allegations emerged.

Family trip and support

The allegations became public during the family’s October half-term holiday outside the UK, Caamano said. She described the timing as coincidental, noting that some UK schools have a two-week break.

Caamano expects the family to return to their UK home toward the end of the week, before the children resume school. She said friends in the UK and abroad have reached out to support Meghan, who is reportedly very upset.

Investigation and denials

Thomas Markle Sr., 82, is being investigated in the Philippines after his son, Thomas Markle Jr., allegedly found child sexual abuse images and videos among his belongings in Cebu City. The report said the material could number “hundreds, if not thousands.” Markle Sr. has denied the accusations, calling them “sick lies.” Samantha Markle defended her father and accused Thomas Jr. of making the claims for “revenge.”

Meghan’s response and work

Meghan, who has been estranged from her father since 2018, said she had known about the “deeply distressing” accusations for years. She said keeping her father from contact with her children was a choice made to protect them.

Caamano said Meghan remains focused on her family and work, including expanding As Ever and considering scripts as she explores a possible return to acting. She also pointed to Meghan’s planned appearance on “Junior MasterChef Australia” as a continuing opportunity outside the royal sphere.