By Nonso Adigwe
Society Page Editor
Thomas Markle, the estranged father of Meghan Markle, has revealed he has found happiness again after years of personal struggles and family distance. The retired Hollywood lighting director, now 81, is reportedly in a relationship with a Filipino nurse he met while recovering from major surgery in the Philippines.
Markle, who relocated to Cebu in early 2025 with his son, said the relationship developed during his rehabilitation following the amputation of his lower leg due to a serious blood clot. He spent several weeks in intensive care before being transferred to a rehabilitation facility, where he met Rio Canedo, a 46-year-old nurse and mother of two.
According to Markle, the relationship came at a time when he had lost hope of finding happiness again. He described his partner as caring and supportive, adding that she has played a major role in his recovery and emotional well-being.
The former television professional has endured a series of health setbacks in recent years, including a stroke in 2022 that affected his speech. He also continues to battle pneumonia, but credits his improved outlook to the care he has received in the Philippines and the companionship of his new partner.
Markle’s estrangement from his daughter dates back to 2018, when he was unable to attend her wedding to Prince Harry after suffering two heart attacks. Since then, he has said he has made several attempts to reconnect but has not been successful.
Despite the family distance, Markle insists he still loves his daughter but is now focused on finding peace and happiness in his remaining years. He also revealed he hopes to travel again once his health improves and is considering taking his partner to the United States.
For now, he says he is content living quietly in the Philippines, where he continues physiotherapy and prepares to be fitted with a prosthetic leg later this year.
