Meghan Markle’s father has said his daughter looks “beautiful” after watching her get married from hospital his bed.
Thomas Markle Sr was unable to attend the wedding after having heart surgery in the US this week, leaving Prince Charles to fill in for him.
After watching the ceremony he told TMZ the service “was beautiful and it’s history” while adding he “will always regret not being able to be there and not being able to hold my daughter’s hand.”
He continued: “My baby girl is a duchess and I love her so much. When you watch your child get married, every thought goes through your mind, every memory from the first day she was born, the first time I held her.”
On Wednesday, Markle Sr told TMZ he will be unable to travel to England at all, as doctors need to “go in and clear blockage, repair damage and put a stent where it is needed.”
He first checked himself into hospital on Tuesday suffering with chest pains, after previously claiming he suffered a heart attack last week. Shockingly, he claimed an open letter written by his son, Thomas Jr, urging Prince Harry to call off the wedding, is what triggered his recent health problems.
Tackling the intensely emotional situation head on, Meghan said she hoped her father could be given the space he need to heal.
“Sadly, my father will not be attending our wedding. I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health,” she said in a statement released by the Palace.
“I would like to thank everyone who has offered generous messages of support. Please know how much Harry and I look forward to sharing our special day with you on Saturday.”
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle said “I do” in front of 600 guests at St George’s Chapel on Saturday morning, with millions more around the world tuning in to watch the ceremony on television.
After leaving the chapel, the pair shared a kiss on the steps of the chapel, much to the delight of the thousands of cheering well wishers.
Meghan looked absolutely beautiful in her Givenchy gown – designed by British designer Clare Waight Keller, who is the first female Artistic Director at historic French fashion house.