A new media scandal has erupted in the UK: TV channel GB News was forced to publicly apologize for spreading false information about Doria Ragland, Meghan Markle’s mother. Presenter Carol Malone, who had previously claimed on air that the Duchess of Sussex’s mother had allegedly served time in prison, admitted her mistake and apologized to the Markle family.
The incident occurred after Malone stated in one of the December broadcasts that Thomas Markle, Meghan’s father, raised his daughter alone while her mother was allegedly incarcerated. The presenter later explained that she had relied on inaccurate information she found online and failed to verify it before going on air.
Live on air, Malone emphasized that her statements were mistaken and expressed regret for the pain caused. She noted that Doria Ragland has never been in prison and has always played an active role in her daughter’s life. According to Malone, the Markle family deserves respect and an apology for such remarks.
Family relations
Once again, attention has turned to the complicated dynamics within Meghan Markle’s family. After her parents’ divorce in 1987, Meghan was mainly raised by her mother. Despite disagreements between her parents, Doria Ragland always supported her daughter and was there during the key moments of her life.
In recent years, Meghan’s relationship with her father has notably cooled. Ahead of her wedding to Prince Harry in 2018, Thomas Markle found himself in the spotlight due to a controversy over staged photos for the tabloids. Following this incident, contact between Meghan and her father all but ceased.
Nevertheless, despite their differences, Meghan has tried to reconnect with her father, especially following his recent health problems. Representatives for the Duchess confirmed that she sent a letter and attempted to contact Thomas Markle during his hospitalization.
Thomas Markle’s Health
In December 2025, it was revealed that Thomas Markle was facing serious health issues. He underwent an amputation of his left leg below the knee after developing a blood clot that led to tissue necrosis. Thomas’s son, Thomas Markle Jr., said the operation was necessary to save their father’s life.
Doctors warned that the days following the surgery would be critical due to risks of infection and complications. The Markle family expressed concern for the family patriarch’s condition, but details about his current wellbeing have not been disclosed.
Despite her differences with her father, Meghan Markle took the initiative to support him during this difficult time. According to the Duchess’s representatives, her letter was delivered to Thomas Markle through trusted intermediaries.
Public Reaction
The scandal over false on-air statements has sparked widespread public reaction in the UK. Many viewers and experts have highlighted the need for thorough fact-checking before information is published by the media. The mistake made by the GB News host prompted a discussion on journalistic ethics and the responsibility to avoid spreading rumors.
Social media users have been actively discussing the situation, expressing support for Doria Ragland and criticizing the rush to judgment against the Markle family. Some commentators noted that incidents like this undermine trust in the media and can seriously damage the reputations of innocent people.
Host Carole Malone, who issued an apology, emphasized that her mistake was unintentional and promised to be more diligent in fact-checking in the future. GB News also released an official statement expressing regret over the incident and assured that steps would be taken to prevent similar situations in the future.
The Markle Family Today
Today, Meghan Markle continues to maintain a close relationship with her mother, despite all the challenges their family has faced. Doria Ragland remains an important presence in the lives of her daughter and grandchildren, and is actively involved in charitable projects.
Despite attempts at reconciliation, family disagreements with her father remain unresolved. However, Meghan continues to hope for a restoration of the relationship and remains concerned about Thomas Markle’s health.
The GB News apology incident is yet another reminder of how easily false information can make it on air and impact people’s lives. In British society, the debate continues over the role of media and journalists’ responsibility for their words.
By the way, Doria Ragland is an American social worker and yoga instructor, and the mother of Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex. Born in Los Angeles, she worked for many years in social services. After her daughter’s marriage to Prince Harry, Doria became a well-known figure in the international media, although she has always tried to avoid the spotlight. GB News is a British television channel specializing in news and current affairs programs, and has repeatedly drawn criticism for controversial statements made by its presenters.
