Meghan Markle has reportedly taken another decisive step in her long-standing estrangement from her father, Thomas Markle, following his recent hospitalization and major surgery.
According to a report by The Sunday Times, the Duchess of Sussex has further limited contact with her father by deleting his phone number after he underwent a leg amputation due to serious health complications. The report also claims that Meghan has not traveled to the Philippines, where Thomas Markle is currently recovering.
Meghan has remained estranged from her father since 2018, amid repeated media controversies. Sources say she avoided calling him directly over concerns that any private conversation could be leaked to the press. Instead, she previously sent a private letter expressing her feelings about his continued media interviews, hoping the correspondence would remain confidential.
An insider described the letter as “warm” and “heartfelt,” but also noted that it appeared carefully worded. “Every word was measured. She had to protect herself,” the source said, adding that while Meghan sought connection, past experiences made her cautious. The insider further revealed that the situation remains emotionally difficult, marked by both lingering affection and fear of further breaches of trust.
Thomas Markle’s health condition was disclosed by Meghan’s half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr., who confirmed that doctors were forced to amputate their father’s leg to remove a life-threatening blood clot. Speaking to the Daily Mail, he said the decision was a matter of survival and described their father as being “very brave” throughout the ordeal.
He explained that Thomas Markle’s foot rapidly changed color, prompting urgent medical scans and an ultrasound, after which doctors determined that amputation was the only viable option.
The development underscores the continued strain within the Markle family, even as serious health concerns bring renewed public attention to their fractured relationship.