Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
I’m delighted3
Meghan’s reclusive dad confirms he hopes to give her away to Harry
MEGHAN Markle’s father Thomas has said he is “delighted” to be welcoming Prince Harry into the family.
When the Mirror tracked reclusive Thomas down in Mexico he broke his silence on the royal wedding to say he hopes to walk his daughter down the aisle on her big day.
Asked if he will be at St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle to give away Meghan, 36, Thomas Markle Sr beamed: “Yes. I’d love to.”
The 73-year-old added: “I’m very pleased. I’m delighted,” However, he could reveal no more about his actress daughter’s royal romance, saying: “I’m sorry. You know I can’t talk.”
He has kept his silence since the engagement was announced. His ex-wife Doria Ragland has also not spoken.
The Mirror handed him a bottle of bubbly to toast the couple.
And to give him a taste of Britain before he flies in for the wedding – tipped to be on May 26 – we handed him a box of Twinings English Breakfast tea, which carries the Queen’s royal warrant. He said: “Thank you. That’s very kind.”
Friends say he is back on his feet after a difficult period. Last year the retired award-winning lighting technician declared himself bankrupt in California, with credit card debts of £24,180.
He left his Los Angeles home and moved to Mexico where he has rebuilt his life. He has kept a low profile since Meghan’s relationship with Harry, 33, emerged last year. We tracked down the dad-of-three to his home near Rosarito Beach, where we found him at his local shop where he bought a fourpack of Heineken and cigarettes.
A neighbour said: “Tom’s had it tough but never once have we heard him complain. He has just got on with his life. Life’s certainly on the up for him and he is over the
moon for his daughter.”