Meghan Markle's father pulls out of the royal wedding

Who will walk Meghan Markle down the aisle when she marries Prince Harry? That's the question on everyone's mind after news reports suggest her father, Thomas Markle, will skip this Saturday's royal wedding after claims he staged paparazzi shots.

Thomas was caught on CCTV footage chatting to a photographer before posing for fake photos at an internet cafe in Mexico - where he currently lives. 

One picture showed him sitting at a computer while reading about his daughter online. Another staged image showed the 73-year-old getting fitted for a tuxedo.

The pictures were allegedly sold for £100,000. Thomas told TMZ he was simply doing what the photographer told him to do. He added that he regretted taking the pictures, which he says looked "stupid and hammy." 

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Thomas also revealed that he suffered a heart attack a week ago and checked himself out of the hospital in order to attend his daughter's wedding to Prince Harry. He told the publication that he won't be attending the ceremony as he does not want to cause any further embarrassment for his daughter. 

Meghan's estranged half-sister, Samantha Markle, said she is the one who gave their father the idea of staging the pictures.

"I have to say, I am entirely the culprit. As we know the media can take very unflattering photographs of people on their casual days and blow it way out of proportion. I said, 'You know, the world has no idea you're getting in shape, doing healthy things. They don't photograph you buying vegetables and PH water. They photograph you as unflattering ways as they can.' I said, 'Really, you need to show the world that you're getting in shape and doing great healthy things.' So, I suggested it," she told UK talk show, Loose Women.

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Thomas was set to fly to London a few days before the wedding to meet with the Queen and the rest of the royal family.

Kensington Palace declined to comment on the allegations. Officials have, however, asked the media to respect her father's privacy. 

"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," the palace said in a statement.

The Daily Mail is reporting that Thomas has given Meghan's mother Doria Ragland his blessing to walk their daughter down the aisle in his place.

Meghan and Harry will tie the knot at St George's Chapel on Saturday, May 19.

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