The Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, is facing fresh public criticism over her relationship with her father, following news that he has undergone emergency surgery.
Health Scare for Thomas Markle
Thomas Markle Sr, 81, is now in a stable condition in intensive care after a three-hour operation. His son confirmed the pensioner was dashed to hospital following an emergency at his home on the Philippine island of Cebu. He lives more than 7,000 miles from Meghan and Prince Harry in Montecito, California.
It is understood that the Duchess has not made contact with her father since his health scare, a decision that has once again brought the family's long-standing rift into sharp focus.
Columnist's Scathing Critique
In a strongly-worded opinion piece for the Daily Mail, experienced columnist Jan Moir has accused Meghan Markle of "hypocrisy" in her treatment of her father. Moir wrote that Mr Markle has been "exiled, banished, cancelled and snubbed for seven long years by the Sussexes".
The journalist highlighted the contrast between the Duchess's public advocacy and her private family dealings. "She makes treats and cosy memories for loved ones while simpering about warmth, love, friendship and family," Moir stated, referencing Meghan's recent Netflix activities.
Moir also pointed to the Archewell Foundation's motto of "Show up, do good," suggesting the couple would prioritise strangers over their own kin. "You get the feeling they would crawl over broken glass to hold the hand of a stranger... before showing up and doing good for the welfare of their own kin," she added.
A Fractured Family History
The relationship between Meghan and her father broke down in 2018 around the time of her wedding to Prince Harry. Thomas Markle Sr has suffered several serious health issues in the intervening years, including two heart attacks and a major stroke in 2022 which affected his speech.
He has been living in a modest high-rise flat in Cebu, costing around £500 per month. The current situation has reignited debate about the Duchess's personal conduct, with critics accusing her of failing to show compassion despite her public persona centred on family and kindness.
At the time of writing, Meghan Markle has not publicly addressed her father's hospitalisation on her social media channels.
