Thomas Markle Snr is at risk of pushing his daughter further away with his public calls for a reunion, according to an expert.

The 79-year-old sat down for a new interview and opened up about his relationship with Meghan Markle, begging her to end their feud in time for his birthday next month. Thomas also asked to meet his grandchildren – Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

Relationship expert Louella Alderson has suggested Thomas should have sent a private message to Meghan instead of doing a new interview. Speaking exclusively to The Mirror, she said Thomas’ actions could actually “further strain their already fragile relationship”.

Whilst Thomas Markle appears to desire a reunion with his daughter, the true intentions and motives behind his words are difficult to discern,” Louella said. “It’s understandable that he would want a relationship with his grandchildren, especially as he approaches his 80th birthday, but it’s important to consider the history of their estrangement and any potential issues that may still need to be addressed before a reconciliation is possible.”

She added: “It’s also worth mentioning that this isn’t the first time Thomas has publicly pleaded for a reunion with Meghan and her family. His constant media appearances and attempts at contacting Meghan through interviews will likely only further strain their already fragile relationship.

“These repeated public attempts at reconciliation almost feel as though he either doesn’t know his daughter very well at all, or he is using it as an excuse for attention and sympathy.” The expert also suggested it will take more than Thomas’ big birthday approaching to mend his relationship with Meghan.

Louella explained: “While big occasions such as a milestone birthday can bring families together, it may take a lot of time to mend a relationship that has been estranged for six years.” If Meghan and Thomas were to reunite, Louella said it would be “important for both parties to be willing to communicate and address any unresolved issues in a respectful and private manner”.

She said until Thomas will make their relationship struggles private, “any chance of reconciliation may be difficult”. Louella also suggested Meghan may eventually reach out to her father.

She told us: “It’s possible that Meghan may eventually reach out to her father in private, but ultimately the timing and possibility of reconciliation is up to her and what she feels is best for herself and her own family.”

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