Meghan 'not emotionally strong enough' for speech as she pulls out after father's arrest

Meghan has pulled out of a planned speech because she does not feel emotionally strong enough for public speaking after her father's arrest, Sky News understands.

The Duchess of Sussex was due to make a joint speech with the Duke of Sussex in Brussels about online child safety on Tuesday.

Harry and Meghan had both been set to deliver the keynote address to the European Parliament.

However, Sky News understands Meghan does not feel emotionally strong enough right now to do any public speaking.

Harry's now-solo speech will take place at the opening of the Lost Screen Memorial, an art installation honouring children who have died after being subjected to harm online.

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The Duchess will still join Harry at the event, but has decided not to speak after Thomas Markle Sr, 82, appeared in court on Friday, charged with possession of child abuse material.

Markle Sr was pictured in handcuffs in a wheelchair as FBI agents escorted him from a Florida retirement home.

According US Attorney Bill Essayli, agents had seized around 78 items including "slides, film negatives and books" in two Los Angeles storage units allegedly rented by Mr Markle.

The items found are alleged to include "sexually explicit photographs of himself with prepubescent girls".

Mr Essayli said: "These allegations are extremely serious, and we will prosecute Mr Markle to the fullest extent of federal law."

Mr Markle did not enter a plea at Friday's hearing.

He was then released back to a senior care facility with an electronic tag so that his location can be monitored.

(c) Sky News 2026: Meghan 'not emotionally strong enough' for speech as she pulls out after father's arrest