Thomas Markle shared his disappointment after learning about Meghan Markle and Prince Harry’s reported return to the UK on television. He stated that he found out at the same time as the public.
Thomas Markle reportedly learned of Meghan Markle’s UK return on TV
Speaking to the Daily Mail, Meghan Markle’s father said he first heard about the Sussexes’ reported relocation while watching CNN. “I saw on CNN that they were returning to England. I found out about it at the same time as the rest of the world,” Thomas said.
The 82-year-old is currently recovering in a US rehabilitation facility following the amputation of his left leg. He admitted that the news left him feeling deeply hurt. “I’m hurt and upset that she doesn’t give a damn about me, even though I’m in hospital,” he told the outlet.
Thomas also reflected on his once-close relationship with Meghan. He recalled that she had always been a “daddy’s girl” before their relationship broke down. He said he remains saddened that he has never met his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
“One day those kids will ask about their ‘other’ grandfather, the one who isn’t King, the one that Meghan and Harry are apparently ashamed of,” he said. “I hope they know how much I wanted to meet them.”
The father-daughter relationship has remained strained since before Meghan and Prince Harry’s 2018 royal wedding. The initial fallout came after Thomas’ involvement in staged paparazzi photos.
Thomas underwent surgery earlier this year. Following the procedure, he publicly appealed to Meghan for a chance to reconnect, stating he did not want to “die estranged” from his daughter. He also claimed he had kept the same phone number in hopes she would contact him.
However, Meghan’s representatives have previously disputed claims that she ignored her father. A spokesperson told People that the Duchess had reached out through “reliable and trusted contacts.” They confirmed her correspondence had been safely delivered to him.
It remains unclear whether Meghan’s reported return to the UK will have any impact on their long-running estrangement.
