Thomas Markle Jr., the estranged half-brother of Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex, has released a provocative YouTube video that mocks his half-sister in an unsettling manner. Donning a wig and tiara, and stuffing a pillow under his shirt to imitate pregnancy, Thomas’s 87-minute performance is steeped in controversy and personal jabs.
During the video, Thomas introduces himself with a derogatory nickname and claims to be flaunting a “pregnancy bump” he allegedly bought from eBay.
This bizarre act has drawn severe criticism, with royal commentator Jennie Bond telling the Daily Mail, “To have your own flesh and blood lead the assault must feel like the ultimate betrayal for Meghan.” Bond described the footage as “grotesque,” underscoring the discomfort and disapproval it has stirred among the public and experts alike.
Thomas, who has not spoken to Meghan in over a decade, appeared unapologetic about exploiting his royal connection. “If you don’t like it, don’t watch, right? I’m gonna be riding those coattails, baby,” he brazenly stated in the video. Further extending his controversial stance, Thomas revealed plans to launch a range of merchandise, including glasses, mugs, and T-shirts, seemingly capitalizing on the notoriety of the video.
His sister, Samantha Markle, also estranged, has had her own share of public disputes with Meghan. Last month, Samantha lost a defamation lawsuit against Meghan, where a judge found no substantial evidence of defamation or defamation-by-implication by the Duchess.