Thomas Markle Battles for Life in Intensive Care as Family Appeals for Reconciliation

Critical Health Emergency Unfolds in the Philippines

Thomas Markle, the estranged father of Meghan Markle, was rushed to a hospital in the Philippines on December 2, 2025. Thomas, 81, now lives in the Philippines. His son and Meghan’s half-brother, Thomas Markle Jr, has said he was rushed to hospital on Tuesday after falling ill at home. Thomas underwent around three hours of surgery on Wednesday and remains in intensive care. He now reportedly faces a second procedure to remove a blood clot.

Thomas Jr. recently told The Daily Mail, “The doctors said his life was in imminent danger.” The family has described the situation as precarious, with the retired Hollywood lighting director connected to multiple medical machines as he battles for recovery.

A History of Health Struggles and Family Estrangement

The estranged father of Meghan Markle has gone through numerous health issues over the past few years, including a pair of heart attacks. Mr Markle has been struggling with his health for numerous years, suffering two heart attacks on the night before Meghan’s wedding, preventing him from getting on a plane from Los Angeles to London. Samantha notes that he has been through “two heart attacks, a stroke and an earthquake.”

The Duchess of Sussex and her father have been estranged since 2018. They fell out in the lead-up to Meghan’s wedding to Prince Harry in 2018. According to reports, Thomas hasn’t met Prince Harry nor his grandchildren Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

Family’s Emotional Plea for Compassion

As Thomas Markle Sr. fights for his life, his family has issued heartfelt appeals for public support and, more pointedly, for Meghan to reach out. Thomas Jr has said the family has heard nothing from the Sussex family. He added: “I would implore Meghan and Harry to reach out to Dad.”

In January of this year, he announced he was moving to Asia to mark a “fresh start”. Speaking to the MailOnline, Thomas said that he wishes Meghan “no ill-will”. Thomas also admitted his “dream” was that “one day I could bring my whole family together, like a ‘normal’ family”.

Significance and Impact

The medical emergency has reignited public interest in the complex relationship between Thomas Markle and his daughter, the Duchess of Sussex. He underwent further surgery to remove a blood clot on Thursday and is said to be in “a stable condition”, according to his son Thomas Jr. As the 81-year-old remains in critical condition, his situation highlights the human cost of family estrangement and raises questions about reconciliation during life’s most vulnerable moments. Whether this health crisis will bridge the years-long divide remains to be seen, but the family’s public appeals underscore their hope for compassion and healing.