Prince Charles will be walking Meghan Markle down the aisle at the Royal Wedding
Prince Charles will be walking Meghan Markle down the aisle for her wedding to his son, Prince Harry. Meghan's father, Thomas Markle was supposed to be walking her down the aisle, but recently suffered from a heart attack and was forced to pull out a few days before the Royal Wedding.
Kensington Palace made an announcement: "Ms. Meghan Markle has asked His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales to accompany her down the aisle of the Quire of St George’s Chapel on her Wedding Day. The Prince of Wales is pleased to be able to welcome Ms. Markle to The Royal Family in this way."
Thomas Markle revealed that he had a heart attack around six days ago and had himself checked out of a hospital in the hope of attending his daughter's wedding. However, Thomas Markle has now changed his mind. He has successfully undergone heart surgery and has had three stents implanted.
Due to his health issues, he will not be able to make it to his daughter's wedding as he needs time to recover.
Meghan Markle confirmed this in a statement released through Kensington Palace. "Sadly, my father will not be attending our wedding. I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health. I would like to thank everyone who has offered generous messages of support."
"Please know how much Harry and I look forward to sharing our special day with you on Saturday," she continued.
Thomas Markle spoke to TMZ and shared that he was "ok" although it would take him a while to recover and heal. He said, "Staying in the hospital a few more days. Not allowed to get excited."
Initially, Meghan Markle's mother, Doria Ragland was expected to walk her daughter down the aisle instead of Thomas. However, unlike Meghan's mother, Prince Charles has a vast amount of experience at appearing at large-scale public events under heavy scrutiny.
Prince Charles has previously performed the same duty for Alexandra Knatchbull, the daughter of his close friend, Lord Brabourne, in 2016. It is believed that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle discussed who should take on the big role for the wedding ceremony.
A rehearsal at Windsor took place yesterday ahead of the big celebrations tomorrow. The rehearsal brings an end to months and months of planning and organization.
More than 250 men and women from the armed forces will be ready and on call, tomorrow as the newlyweds Prince Harry and Meghan Markle take the 25-minute carriage ride through town.