The Heartbreaking Reason Meghan Markle's Dad Will NOT Be Attending the Royal Wedding

Meghan Markle's dad, Thomas, will not be walking his daughter down the aisle on Saturday. During an interview with TMZ on Monday, the former Emmy-winning lighting director confirmed that he won't be attending the royal wedding after he was caught staging photos of himself with the paparazzi in the weeks leading up to Meghan and Prince Harry's nuptials.

According to Thomas, he meant no harm to Meghan or the royal family when he made a deal with a photo agency, but he did admit the pictures looked "stupid and hammy." He also said that he's been offered anywhere between $50,000 to $100,000 for interviews, but he's turned them all down.

In addition, Thomas revealed that he recently suffered a heart attack, but he checked himself out early so that he could attend. However, Thomas has now decided not to go because he doesn't want to embarrass Meghan or the royal family.

A Kensington Palace spokesman has since released a statement to People, confirming the news. "This is a deeply personal moment for Ms. Markle in the days before her wedding. She and Prince Harry ask again for understanding and respect to be extended to Mr. Markle in this difficult situation."

Even though Thomas later changed his mind and said he wanted to walk Meghan down the aisle after all, he confirmed to TMZ that he won't be making it to the wedding. After admitting himself to the hospital on Tuesday, Thomas underwent heart surgery the following morning.

Meghan released an official statement via Kensington Palace on Thursday, confirming that her dad won't be in attendance. "Sadly, my father will not be attending our wedding," the statement read. "I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health."

So does this mean Meghan's mom will be walking her down the aisle? Looks like we'll find out on Saturday.