Earlier today, American actress-turned-Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, gave birth to a healthy baby boy. Prince Harry confirmed the news from their home, Frogmore Cottage, where experts believe she gave birth. The baby weighs 7lbs and 3oz, and both the mother and son are said to be doing well.
When announcing the baby's arrival, Prince Harry told the press that he and Meghan have not decided on a name yet. Bookmaker's favorites for the name are Arthur, James, Philip, Edward, and Albert, according to The Daily Mail. (Personally, I'm hoping they pick a name from Game of Thrones, like Tyrion, Aegon or Podrick!)
Following the royal baby announcement, Meghan's father, Thomas Markle issued a statement to The Sun:
"I'm delighted to hear that mother and child are doing well. I am proud that my new grandson is born into the British royal family and I am sure that he will grow up to serve the crown and the people of Britain with grace, dignity, and honour.
"GOD bless the child and I wish him health and happiness, and my congratulations to my lovely daughter Duchess Meghan and Prince Harry, and GOD save the Queen."
Watch Thomas plead with the Queen to resolve his "family problems"
Thomas Markle, a 74-year-old former Hollywood lighting director, lives in Rosarito, Mexico, where he keeps a low profile. Prior to the royal wedding in May 2018, he got busted in a scandal staging paparazzi photos in exchange for money. The shameful incident sparked debate over whether or not Thomas would walk his daughter down the aisle. Citing poor health, he did not attend the ceremony, and Prince Charles fulfilled his role.
On Good Morning Britain last December, Thomas said he hasn't spoken to Meghan in six months. "I've been ghosted," he said. "I'm not sure why it's happening. I love my daughter very much. I wish she would reach out, send me a text, anything. There has to be a place for me. I'm her father."
Watch Thomas Markle's full interview with Good Morning Britain"She's always been very polite to everyone, never been rude to anyone," Thomas recounted. "I don't know what's really happening right now. My daughter lived with me from the age of 11 all through middle school and high school until she went off to college. We're very close. What's happened, I'm not sure. I'd love to talk about it. I think it comes back to the fact that reporters pick up on interviews I've done and write their own stories and tell lies."
"I don't plan to be silent for the rest of my life," Meghan's dad continued. "I love my daughter very much and she has to know that, and I would really appreciate if she would call me, just reach out to me. There has to be a place for me. I'm here, she knows it ... I need her to reach back to me."
The royal baby is Thomas' sixth grandchild.
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