Tensions between Meghan Markle and her father, Thomas Markle, have long captured public attention, often playing out under the unforgiving glare of the media. Their fractured relationship has sparked speculation, with many wondering if reconciliation is ever possible. Now, reports suggest a potential turning point.

As Thomas Markle faces mounting health concerns, the With Love, Meghan star has reportedly extended a surprising olive branch to him.

A report claims the Duchess of Sussex has made efforts to bridge the gap between her father and herself amid his life-threatening health complications. 

Meghan Markle is understood to have contacted her estranged father, Thomas Markle, following his emergency leg amputation recently, according to PEOPLE. The 81-year-old is recovering in intensive care in the Philippines after a blood clot in his thigh cut off circulation.

A spokesperson for the Duchess of Sussex told PEOPLE, “I can confirm she has reached out to her father.”   

Thomas Markle’s son, Thomas Markle Jr., told the Daily Mail the surgery became necessary after his father’s foot turned “blue and then black,” and doctors determined amputation was required.

Thomas Markle remains under close medical supervision, with the next few days considered critical as doctors monitor for infection and potential complications following years of health issues, including a stroke in 2022. Meghan Markle, for those unversed, put distance between herself and her father in 2018.

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The timeline of the fallout between the Suits alum and Thomas Markle, which makes the contact reported by PEOPLE so significant, can be traced back to her wedding to Prince Harry.

Meghan Markle’s relationship with her father broke down in the lead-up to her royal wedding to Prince Harry. Intense media scrutiny of the Markle family revealed that Thomas Markle had arranged a deal with paparazzi, without the former actress' knowledge. This cheating strained their relationship.

Citing health issues, he ultimately withdrew from the ceremony, with King Charles III walking Meghan Markle down the aisle. Since then, Thomas Markle has remained critical of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry, and it remains unclear whether they ever reconciled.

With the holiday season just around the corner, Meghan Markle appears to be navigating a deeply personal and challenging period. Between addressing her estranged father’s serious health crisis and reflecting on festive traditions in With Love, Meghan: Holiday Celebration, the Duchess seems to be confronting both public and private pressures simultaneously.

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How do you see Meghan Markle reaching out to her father amid his major health issue? Let us know in the comments.