Thomas Markle has spoken of his distress after learning that Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are returning to the UK without introducing him to his grandchildren. He told The Mail on Sunday: "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. I'm hurt and upset that she doesn't give a damn about me, even though I'm in hospital."
Sussexes' return to Britain
Prince Harry and Meghan are planning to move back to Britain more than six years after relocating to the US. The couple are returning later this month to a non-royal residence outside London and have already enrolled Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet in British schools.
There will be no change to their role and status as private individuals and non-working members of the royal family. They are expected to remain financially independent and continue their commercial and charitable work, while Harry is not expected to undertake official royal duties.
Estrangement and health struggles
Thomas Markle became estranged from Meghan on the eve of her 2018 wedding to Harry. He has never met his son-in-law or his grandchildren Archie, six, and Lilibet, four, as a result.
Thomas has faced serious health issues in recent years. Earlier this year he had his left leg amputated in a three-hour "life or death" operation after being rushed to hospital from his home in the Philippines.
At the time, Meghan's spokesperson confirmed she had "reached out" by delivering a letter to her dad. But Thomas claimed he was "confused" by reports that his youngest child had tried to get in touch with him.
Thomas's plea
Her spokesperson later released a statement clarifying the situation: "It has been exceedingly difficult for the Duchess to contact her father privately, despite her efforts over the past several days. With the support of reliable and trusted contacts, her correspondence is now safely in his hands."
Thomas added: "Meghan used to love me, she was always a daddy's girl, and now it's like I don't exist. I have never met my grandchildren, and now they are leaving America. 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. I hope they know how much I wanted to meet them."
The Mirror has contacted Meghan Markle's representatives for comment.
