MEGHAN Markle’s estranged father Thomas has revealed he is quitting America – and fears he will never meet his grandchildren.
The esteemed former lighting director has plans to relocate this year to spend his time with “kinder people”, possibly in South East Asia.
It comes as the Duchess of Sussex, 43, launched her show With Love, Meghan and posted a cryptic video marking 2025 signifying a fresh start.
Thomas, 80, who has suffered with ill-health including two heart attacks and a stroke, told the Mail he will be leaving his California home after 10 years.
He said: “I am ready for a change. I have felt stuck in a rut for some time and I am ready to meet new people and experience kindness.”
His home, just 250miles away from Meghan, was filled with pictures and accolades of his daughter – who he affectionately dubs “Megsy”.
Thomas also spoke about the Duchess’ first husband, Trevor Engelson, who he “really liked”.
She divorced the Hollywood producer, just two years before being introduced to Harry through mutual friends.
Thomas claimed he didn’t think Trevor “ever understood” why she ended the marriage.
Thinking ahead, the father-of-three confessed he has resigned himself to the fact he will most likely never meet Archie, five, or Lilibet, three.
But, the grandfather is looking forward to travelling with his son and Meghan’s half brother, Thomas Jr, who he has a good relationship with.
He said “it’s time to move on” and “enjoy the time I have left” somewhere that offers “peace”.
The Duchess’ estranged father also said while he doesn’t like some of Meghan’s behaviour, his “door is always open”.
Thomas has been estranged from his daughter since suffering two heart attacks on the eve of her wedding to Harry.
The 80-year-old was unable to walk her down the aisle, and they’ve not been in contact since.
Further turmoil between the pair erupted after Thomas posed for paparazzi pictures ahead of Harry and Meghan tying the knot.
However, Meghan has previously shared the hurt and “betrayal she felt” by her father.
She opened up about her relationship with her estranged dad and said she was left feeling crushed when he lied to her about not talking to the media.
In her sensational interview with Oprah in 2021, Meghan said: “I’m trying to decide if I’m comfortable even talking about that.
“It was… if we were going to use the word betrayal.”
It comes as fans have accused Meghan Markle of copying recipes and Princess Kate’s beekeeping in her new Netflix show.
The Duchess of Sussex gave fans an insight into With Love, Meghan, which airs on January 15, in a new trailer yesterday.
A montage of various clips in the nearly two minute video showed Meghan walking through vegetable patches and fields.
She was also filmed browsing florists and hand selecting beautiful flowers for table arrangements, showing off her creative side.
The Duchess even tried her hand at beekeeping, fully suited up, as she collected honey.
In the exciting new trailer, Meghan shared: “I’ve always loved taking something pretty ordinary and elevating it.
“Surprising people with moments that let them know I was really thinking of them.
“I’m going to share some little tips and tricks. I see what colour I gravitate to, and everything goes from there. And how you incorporate these practices every day.
“This is about connecting with friends.. I love that we’re doing this together for the first time. Making new friends.. and just learning.
“We’re not in the pursuit of perfection. We’re in the pursuit of joy. I have to get it totally wrong, to get it totally right.”
But eagle-eyed viewers have already pointed out a number of uncanny similarities to old recipes and shows following the trailer’s release.
Many online believed that the style of the Netflix release was far too similar to others in what has been branded a “copycat” move.
And Meghan’s beekeeping was noted for also being one of Princess Kate’s favourite hobbies.
Some fans are even drawing comparisons between Meghan’s show and Emma’s Kitchen, a YouTube series hosted by Celebrity MasterChef star Emma Weymouth, Marchioness of Bath.
By Charlotte Bend
MEGHAN Markle’s Netflix re-brand shows she has “sacked off the Royal Family for good” in a “bold” attempt to “be like Adele and Oprah”, according to an expert.
It is now “all about Meghan” who has opted to leave out her royal title in the latest trailer.
Brand and culture expert, Nick Ede, told the Sun about how the Duchess of Sussex hopes to become recognisable by just her first name.
While this status has only been granted to “very few stars”, Meghan could “potentially be one of them”.
Describing the move as “bold”, Nick believes it could be a good decision for Meghan as she attempts to win over new fans.
Defining herself in the lifestyle space “rather than as an ex member of the royal family” could be a “very positive step” for a turn in the right direction for the New Year.
Nick continued: “It’ll be a brilliant way to build her brand identity and she could become the new Martha Stewart with the heavyweight of Netflix behind her.
“It’s going to reveal to the world what Meghan loves, it shows that Meghan had a passion for food and cooking.”
Glimpses of such joy have been hinted at through Meghan’s charity cookbook and blog posts.
The show has been set to air on January 15 and “plays to Meghan’s strengths”.
Nick added: “If the show is a success then this will be the perfect way for her to launch a cookbook and the American Riviera Orchard Brand, which she has been testing for nearly a year.
“It’s the best way for fans to see Meghan as she really is rather than causing controversy.
“With the use of the word joy, she’s going to show the world what makes her feel full of joyfulness.
“She and Netflix will be wanting to make sure it does the same for fans and subscribers.
“She’s a foodie and she loves to cook so creating a show about joy in the kitchen with new and old friends is perfect for her.”
The exciting trailer offered a fresh take as Meghan spoke of wanting to “connect with friends”.
Fellow Suits star, Abigail Spencer, known for her role as Dana Scott also made an appearance.
The nearly two minute long video provided a montage of Meghan cooking, arranging flowers, walking through vegetable patches and even beekeeping.
Prince Harry also featured in the trailer as Meghan can be seen smiling with friends.
Meghan shared: “I’ve always loved taking something pretty ordinary and elevating it.
“Surprising people with moments that let them know I was really thinking of them.
“I’m going to share some little tips and tricks. I see what colour I gravitate to, and everything goes from there. And how you incorporate these practices every day.
“This is about connecting with friends.. I love that we’re doing this together for the first time. Making new friends.. and just learning.
“We’re not in the pursuit of perfection. We’re in the pursuit of joy. I have to get it totally wrong, to get it totally right.”
Confirmed guests include Roy Choi, Mindy Kaling, Alice Waters, with additional acclaimed chefs and special friends.
The show description reads: “This inspiring series, produced by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, reimagines the genre of lifestyle programming, blending practical how-to’s and candid conversation with friends, new and old.”
The Sun has approached the Sussexes’ representatives for comment.
