Thomas Markle, Meghan Markle’s estranged father, is reportedly in critical condition at a hospital in the Philippines after suffering a medical emergency on December 2, 2025.
The 81-year-old has long been a controversial public figure, especially since Meghan’s relationship—and eventual marriage—to Prince Harry thrust him into the spotlight. Their relationship famously deteriorated just before the royal wedding in 2018, when it emerged that Thomas had staged paid photos with paparazzi despite being instructed not to engage with the press.
The scandal led to a complete rift. Thomas ultimately did not attend the wedding, citing both the fallout and serious health issues—he reportedly suffered two heart attacks leading up to the ceremony. King Charles stepped in to walk Meghan down the aisle.
Now, Thomas Markle is facing the most serious health crisis of his life.
According to his son, Thomas Markle Jr., Meghan’s father suddenly fell gravely ill at home last week and needed immediate medical attention. After being rushed to a nearby hospital, doctors declared that his condition was life-threatening. On December 3, he underwent an emergency three-hour procedure before being moved to intensive care, where doctors prepared to remove a dangerous blood clot.
“I took Dad to a hospital near our home, and after several scans the doctors said he was in imminent danger,” Thomas Jr. told the Daily Mail. “They rushed us to a larger hospital with sirens blaring. He’s had emergency surgery. I ask everyone to keep him in their thoughts.”
Thomas Jr. and his father relocated to the Philippines earlier this year. He revealed that his father’s foot turned “blue, then black” last Monday, leading doctors to conclude that amputation was necessary.
“My only hope is that Meghan shows him a little compassion. He is literally fighting for his life,” he added.
After intense speculation online, a spokesperson for the Duchess of Sussex confirmed that Meghan had reached out to her father following the surgery.
Thomas Markle has previously spoken openly about the emotional toll of being estranged from his daughter. He said one of the reasons he moved to the Philippines was to escape daily reminders of Meghan and Harry.
“Every day there was another story about them,” he said earlier this year. “It was a constant reminder that my daughter no longer speaks to me. I still don’t understand why she continues to ignore me. My only wish before I die is to see my grandchildren.”
