Meghan Markle's father fears he may never meet grandchildren after his next move

The spotlight on Meghan Markle often shines brightest on her personal life, with her relationships becoming tabloid fodder. While Meghan, 43, introduces her new Netflix show With Love, Meghan, and showcases her creative endeavors, her estranged father, Thomas Markle, has made a life-altering decision. The former Hollywood lighting director, 80, announced plans to leave America after a decade, citing a desire for "kinder people" and a fresh start, potentially in Southeast Asia.

This revelation comes amidst Meghan's latest media ventures, including her 2025 New Year's video hinting at a "fresh start." Meanwhile, her father, whose health has been in decline following two heart attacks and a stroke, has opted for a personal reset of his own. His decision to relocate signifies a stark departure from the Californian home filled with memories of his daughter, affectionately known as "Megsy."

Thomas Markle shared his decision with The Daily Mail, expressing feelings of being "stuck in a rut" and a yearning to experience peace and kindness. The former Mexico resident admitted his move is also fueled by the reality that he may never meet his grandchildren, Archie, 5, and Lilibet, 3. "It's time to move on and enjoy the time I have left," Thomas said, hopeful about traveling with his son, Thomas Jr., with whom he maintains a strong bond.

Their estrangement has been a highly publicized saga, with tensions peaking after Thomas posed for paparazzi pictures ahead of Meghan's royal wedding to Prince Harry in 2018. Unable to attend the wedding due to health issues, Thomas has been estranged from Meghan ever since. Despite their fractured relationship, Thomas insists his "door is always open."

The emotional divide between Meghan Markle and her father

Meghan, however, has been vocal about the "betrayal" she felt, notably during her groundbreaking 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey. Reflecting on their relationship, she shared: "It was... if we were going to use the word betrayal." Her emotional candor highlighted the deep hurt caused by her father's actions, including misleading her about speaking to the press.

As Thomas prepares for his new chapter abroad, Meghan continues to draw both praise and criticism for her Netflix show. While With Love, Meghan explores themes of creativity and connection, fans have accused her of emulating styles from other personalities, including Emma Weymouth's Emma's Kitchen and Princess Kate's beekeeping ventures.

The Markles' story is one of estrangement, regret, and diverging paths. While Thomas seeks solace in distant lands, Meghan charts her own course through media and philanthropy. The distance between them remains palpable, both geographically and emotionally, leaving their fractured family dynamic unresolved.