LONDON — Royal commentator Hugo Vickers has suggested that Meghan Markle may feel "ashamed" of her estranged father, Thomas Markle, fueling ongoing speculation about the fractured family relationship even as the 81-year-old recovers from a serious health setback.

Vickers, a prominent royal historian and biographer, raised the possibility during a recent appearance on GB News. Speaking on May 9, 2026, he described it as one explanation for the continued silence between Meghan and her father, who underwent leg amputation surgery late last year and has since returned to the United States.

"I raise it as a possibility," Vickers said, adding that he believes shame over past events might prevent reconciliation. "He was good to her when she was growing up. If you listen to what he says... you will find a decent man who must feel extremely let down."

Thomas Markle, a retired lighting director who lives in Mexico but sought medical treatment in the Philippines, has faced declining health. Reports indicate he underwent amputation due to complications, spent time in rehabilitation, and recently returned to the U.S. Despite these challenges, sources close to the situation say Meghan, 44, has no immediate plans to visit or deepen contact.

The Duchess of Sussex's team confirmed in December 2025 that she sent a letter to her father after his surgery, delivered through trusted contacts amid media scrutiny. A spokesperson cited difficulties contacting him privately due to a Daily Mail reporter's presence at his bedside, describing it as an "unethical breach." Thomas has publicly acknowledged receiving correspondence but maintains the relationship remains distant.

The father-daughter rift dates back to the days before Meghan's 2018 wedding to Prince Harry. Thomas was photographed preparing for staged paparazzi........

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