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Thomas Markle Sr., the estranged father of Meghan Markle, has publicly denied recent claims that he sexually abused a minor and says he will fight to restore his reputation. The 82-year-old spoke to the press after his son accused him of possessing illegal images, and the dispute has reopened scrutiny of a 2018 letter that reportedly reached U.K. authorities.
How Thomas Markle Sr. responds to the accusations
Speaking to U.K. outlets, Thomas Sr. called the claims untrue and described them as damaging. He insisted he has never had sexual relations with anyone under 18.
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He also acknowledged past relationships and admitted to visiting sex workers twice while living in the Philippines. He stressed that those partners were adults.
Thomas says he is ready to cooperate with investigators. He offered to take a lie detector test and to hand over any devices or records needed to clear his name.
What prompted the controversy
Claims from family and a resurfaced letter
The allegations emerged after Thomas Markle Jr. told a tabloid he discovered alleged child sexual abuse material at their father’s home in the Philippines.
Separately, Meghan Markle has said she was alerted in 2018 by a letter to Britain’s Metropolitan Police. That letter reportedly accused her father of admitting wrongdoing.
Dispute over evidence and the missing computer
Thomas Sr. disputes his son’s account of finding illegal material. He claims his old devices were packed in Mexico and shipped to the Philippines, and that he never shared a house with his son.
He suggested the files could have been planted, saying someone may have tried to damage him before he dies.
Family reactions and public fallout
- Samantha Markle, his eldest daughter, described their father as physically and mentally fragile.
- Meghan’s estrangement from Thomas has been tied to the letter and other family tensions.
- The family now faces renewed media attention and conflicting accounts from relatives.
What Thomas is offering to do to prove his innocence
- Speak with investigators or law enforcement.
- Submit to a polygraph examination.
- Provide access to devices or other materials if requested.
He maintains any illicit images were not his and says he will “do whatever it takes” to clear his name.
Legal and investigative implications
Allegations involving child sexual abuse material prompt criminal inquiries in multiple countries. Authorities typically examine custody of devices, digital logs, and witness statements.
Thomas’ public offers to cooperate could lead to formal interviews or forensic checks if investigators open or reopen probes.
Support resources and helplines
If you or someone you know is affected by child abuse, contact immediate help. The Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline is available at 1-800-422-4453.
