Meghan Markle's UK Exit Explained: Royal Sources Say It Was a School Break, Not a Scandal Escape

Meghan Markle and Prince Harry leaving the UK with Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet set off a wave of speculation, but royal sources say the timing comes down to something way less dramatic: the October school half-term break. According to reporting, the trip was planned before news broke of the child pornography investigation into Meghan’s estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr. Royal journalist Andrea Caamano said,“I wouldn’t describe Meghan as having fled the UK following the allegations against her father.”

The fallout is still heavy for Meghan, who is reportedly incredibly upset and has stayed off social media while friends offer support. Her half-brother Thomas Markle Jr. claims he found the images at their father’s home in the Philippines, and local authorities are investigating. Thomas Markle Sr. denies the allegations, calling them“sick lies,”and Meghan’s half-sister Samantha has publicly defended him. Meghan has been estranged from her father since 2018, saying the distance was to protect her children.

Sources expect the Sussexes back in the UK by the end of the week for their children’s school schedule, with Caamano saying she doesn’t anticipate“a prolonged retreat from public life.”Meghan, meanwhile, is continuing to promote her As Ever business. So the next headline to watch is a return flight, not a resignation from public life. Do you think the planned-break explanation puts the rumors to rest?