The Duchess of Sussex has initiated contact with her estranged father, Thomas Markle, after news emerged that he underwent surgery resulting in the amputation of his leg. A spokesperson for Meghan confirmed the development on Friday, 5 December 2025.
A Strained Relationship and a Health Crisis
The rift between Meghan and her father dates back to 2018, ahead of her wedding to Prince Harry. The relationship fractured after Mr Markle was found to have collaborated with paparazzi to stage photographs. Since then, communication has been virtually non-existent, with Thomas Markle never having met his royal grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.
The recent health emergency involving the 80-year-old, who now resides in the Philippines, appears to have prompted a change. Reports from his location indicated he required serious medical intervention, leading to the loss of his leg. This news seems to have been the catalyst for the Duchess's outreach.
Confirmation from the Palace
A brief statement from a spokesperson for the Duchess of Sussex confirmed the action: "I can confirm she has reached out to her father." The spokesperson offered no further details regarding the nature or outcome of the contact. It is understood that Meghan has attempted to reconnect with Mr Markle on previous occasions, though those efforts did not lead to a sustained reconciliation.
The Path Ahead for the Markle Family
This development marks a significant moment in the long-running and very public family estrangement. Whether this gesture leads to a lasting reconciliation remains to be seen. The situation is complicated by geography, past grievances, and the intense public scrutiny that follows the Sussexes.
The health and wellbeing of Thomas Markle are now the immediate focus. His relocation to the Philippines years ago placed him far from the centre of royal life, and his recent surgery underscores his vulnerable position. The Duchess's decision to reach out, despite their fraught history, suggests a desire to offer support during a medical crisis.
As a breaking story, further details are expected to emerge. The world will be watching to see if this painful chapter in the Duchess of Sussex's personal life can move toward a resolution, or if this contact proves to be another isolated incident in a complex father-daughter relationship.
