A British television comedy program took aim at the unfolding scandal surrounding Meghan Markle’s estranged father over the weekend, as law enforcement officials in the Philippines confirmed an ongoing investigation into suspected child sexual abuse material linked to his former residence.
During a “Weekend Update” segment on “Saturday Night Live UK,” comedians addressed the recent allegations surrounding 82-year-old Thomas Markle. Comedian Paddy Young joked about the timing of the news, referencing his move to the Philippines in 2025, while co-anchor Ania Magliano quipped about the royal family while discussing the controversy, according to media reports from the broadcast.
Investigation underway in the Philippines
The satirical segment aired shortly after Philippine authorities confirmed they were reviewing evidence retrieved from Thomas Markle Sr.’s former residence in the resort city of Cebu. Philippine Interior Minister Jonvic Remulla told Agence France-Presse that national police searched the property and uncovered a laptop alongside a collection of suspected child sexual abuse files.
Remulla told The Guardian that investigators are conducting forensic analysis on the gathered materials, a process expected to conclude within roughly seven days. He noted that while family disputes can complicate circumstances, investigators are examining all possible angles before releasing formal findings to the public.
The inquiry began after Thomas Markle Jr., 60, reported his father to local authorities in the Philippines, The Sun reported. He told the publication that he discovered the disturbing files inside several boxes at the residence and felt compelled to alert police.
Reactions and denials
Thomas Markle Sr., a retired Hollywood lighting director, forcefully rejected the accusations. In an interview with the Daily Mail, he labeled the claims fabricated and malicious, stating he was shocked and hurt by his son’s allegations and denied ever possessing such illicit content.
The Duchess of Sussex addressed the situation in a written statement Friday, describing herself as deeply distressed by the reports. Meghan, 45, noted that she initially became aware of troubling accusations regarding her father several years ago.
“In 2018, a letter was sent to the Metropolitan Police and Royalty and Specialist Protection,” Meghan said in a statement provided to media outlets, explaining that the document outlined alarming allegations against her father and that she had received assurances the matter was under review.
The duchess added that her decision to keep her distance from her father and prevent him from meeting her two children — Prince Archie, 7, and Princess Lilibet, 5 — was made solely to safeguard her family. She expressed sympathy for any minors who might have experienced harm.
Philippine officials stated that a comprehensive report and formal announcement regarding the forensic findings will be made public once the technical evaluation of the seized electronic devices and documents is finalized.
