Markle’s dad too ill for wedding but mom has tea with royals
WINDSOR, England— Ending days of speculation, Meghan Markle said Thursday that her father will not be able to attend her wedding to Prince Harry due to health problems. The news came as British military personnel rehearsed for a gala procession through Windsor that will follow Saturday’s ceremony, which will be televised live around the world.
“Sadly, my father will not be attending our wedding,” Markle said in a statement. “I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health.”
Markle also thanked “everyone who has offered generous messages of support” and said she and Harry are looking forward to “sharing our special day with you on Saturday.”
Kensington Palace has not revealed any details about Thomas Markle’s health issues, but the celebrity website TMZ says the 73-yearold retired Hollywood cinematographer is hospitalized in California after undergoing a procedure to clear blocked coronary arteries. He reportedly told the website he was OK after three stents had been inserted, but needed to rest.
Thomas Markle had been scheduled to walk his daughter down the aisle when she weds her prince Saturday in St. George’s Chapel at Windsor Castle.
No replacement for him as been officially named but it’s possible that Doria Ragland, the bride’s mother, could fill that role instead. The bride may also choose to walk down the aisle by herself.
Ragland has had a series of whirlwind visits with senior royals since her arrival from California.
She met Harry’s brother, Prince William, and his wife Kate and their two oldest children, Prince George, 4, and Princess Charlotte, 3, at Windsor Castle on Thursday afternoon. Palace officials said Harry and Meghan Markle were also present, and that the meeting was followed by a rehearsal dinner.
Ragland also had tea with Harry’s father, Prince Charles, and his wife Camilla the day before. She will meet Harry’s grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II, for tea Friday at Windsor Castle, the palace said.