Kensington Palace Releases Statement Amid News Meghan Markle’s Dad Won’t Attend Royal Wedding

Kensington Palace has quickly released a statement regarding reports that Meghan Markle’s father will no longer attend her wedding to Prince Harry.

Just hours after Thomas Markle reportedly opted not to attend the royal event in the midst of admitting he worked with paparazzi to stage photos, the palace released this statement:

"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.”

Meghan’s father confirmed he agreed to stage photographs of himself leading up to the royal wedding, including pics of him reading a book about Great Britain, getting fitted for a tux, and looking up pictures of Harry and Meghan on the Internet.

Thomas denied taking the photographs for money but rather to improve his image.

Thomas also said he suffered a heart attack six days ago and checked himself out of the hospital early so that he could make it to the wedding, which he’s since chosen not to attend.

Meghan’s father was expected to walk her down the aisle. Meghan’s mother, Doria Ragland, from whom Thomas is divorced, is still expected to attend and ride with Meghan in the car on the way to St. George’s Chapel, where the ceremony is being held.

Meghan and Harry’s wedding is this Saturday, May 19, at Windsor Castle in England.