Thomas Markle, father of the Duchess of Sussex, said the interview Meghan and Prince Harry gave to Oprah Winfrey was the first time hes heard his daughters voice since the breakdown of their relationship.
Markle, who lives in Mexico, told ITVs Good Morning Britain that the last time he was in contact with Meghan was during the controversy over staged photographs that created tensions between the two before her 2018 wedding to Harry.
This is actually the first time Ive heard her speak in four years, Markle said. The last time we spoke, we texted each other.
Markle said regrets his estrangement from his daughter, and the reason he continues to give interviews to the press is that hes trying to get her attention and re-establish contact.
When they talk to me, Ill stop talking to the press, said Markle, whose interviews have fueled the tensions with Meghan.
Markle also said he has great respect for Britains royal family and he didnt think they were racist. One of the most damaging moments of Harry and Meghans interview came when they said members of the royal family had expressed concerns about the color of their unborn sons skin.
The thing about what color will the baby be, Im guessing and hoping its just a dumb question from someone. It could be that simple, someone asked a stupid question rather than being a total racist, Markle said.
(AP)