Meghan Markle’s strained relationship with father remains in the spotlight: ‘Need to talk’

Meghan Markle’s strained relationship with her father, Thomas Markle, continues to make headlines as he once again publicly criticized her. The 80-year-old recently dismissed Meghan’s new Netflix series, With Love, Meghan, calling it “inauthentic” and claiming he could tell when his daughter was faking on camera.

“She’s not being real,” Thomas Markle reportedly told a British tabloid. “I know my daughter, and I can tell when she’s putting on an act.” The Duchess of Sussex has been estranged from her father since her 2018 wedding to Prince Harry, with their relationship only growing more distant over time.

Their fallout began when it was revealed that Thomas had staged paparazzi photos in the lead-up to the royal wedding. Following the controversy, he did not attend the ceremony, citing health issues. Despite attempts by the media to reconcile them, their relationship has remained fractured. In a past interview with Oprah Winfrey, Meghan admitted she felt she had lost her father, suggesting little hope for reconciliation.

“I grieve that loss,” she said. “I mean, I’ve lost my father.” Thomas Markle, however, has continued to speak publicly about their estrangement, often making emotional pleas for Meghan to reconnect. His latest remarks about her Netflix series have reignited discussions about their complex family dynamic.

Psychologist and trauma specialist Stefan Walters noted that family estrangement—especially when played out in the public eye—can be deeply painful for both sides. Speaking to OK! Magazine, he explained, “When there’s an estrangement, it can be difficult and hurtful to be reminded of that connection.

“The fact that people still feel the need to talk about it suggests there are unresolved emotions—perhaps sadness, anger, or grief. Meghan likely experiences these emotions too.” Despite the ongoing tension, Meghan has chosen to remain silent on her father’s latest remarks, continuing to focus on her projects and public engagements.

The Duchess has been working on several initiatives, including her new media production deal, which aims to highlight positive and uplifting stories. Royal experts believe that Meghan’s decision to stay quiet on the matter is deliberate, as she seeks to distance herself from past controversies and maintain privacy regarding personal family matters. Whether or not the father-daughter rift will ever be mended remains uncertain, but for now, the estrangement continues to unfold in the public eye.