Royal commentator questions timing of public appearances as Thomas Markle Sr remains critically ill
Meghan Markle is under renewed scrutiny following reports that her estranged father, Thomas Markle Sr., has undergone emergency surgery resulting in the amputation of his left leg.
The 81-year-old is said to be in intensive care in the Philippines after the procedure. His son, Thomas Markle Jr., has described the situation as dire, saying his father is fighting for his life.
Against this backdrop, it has emerged that Meghan sent her father a letter, although reports suggest she initially struggled to find out where he was being treated. The gesture has sparked debate, particularly given her recent television appearance centred on themes of love and family.
Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams described the situation as deeply uncomfortable, pointing to Meghan’s Christmas special episode of With Love, Meghan. He said it appeared out of step with the seriousness of her father’s condition and questioned how the public would receive it.
Fitzwilliams added that the response was unlikely to be what Meghan had hoped for and suggested that she and Harry would need to think carefully about their next steps.
An insider also weighed in on the letter sent to Thomas Markle Sr., describing it as warm and heartfelt but overly polished. According to the source, it read less like a private message and more like a carefully crafted statement, with every word chosen to protect Meghan.
The unfolding situation continues to fuel discussion about family, distance and public image at a time of personal crisis.
