Meghan Markle’s father, Thomas Markle, is opening up about a new chapter in his life. Thomas spoke to The Daily Mail and shared that he has found love again after years of personal and health challenges.
The 81-year-old revealed that he is now in a relationship with Rio Canedo, 46, a nurse he met while recovering from surgery in the Philippines. Thomas spoke at length about his new romance and described a renewed sense of happiness after a series of health and personal setbacks.
Thomas Markle’s New Relationship Began During His Health Recovery
Markle met Canedo while recovering from a leg amputation procedure in Cebu, where he relocated with his son in early 2025.
Talking about the beginning of their romance, he told the Daily Mail, “After so many tough times, I feel truly blessed to have found someone very special who takes such good care of me.”
The bond grew during his recovery, with Canedo playing a central role in supporting his health and day-to-day routine.
‘You’re Never Too Old to Find Love,’ Thomas Markle Shares Golden Piece of Advice
Markle acknowledged that their age difference may draw attention, but said it does not affect how he feels. “I know some people will say hurtful things, but I don’t care,” he said.
“I want to talk about this because I never thought I would ever be happy again. I want people to know you’re never too old to find peace and love.”
He told The Daily Mail, “There’s a lot of negative things going on in the world, and if my story can give a little hope to one person, then I’m happy. The haters will hate. But, to be honest, I don’t give a damn. Life is for living. There’s nothing more important in life than love.”
Markle said his move to the Philippines has brought him a sense of calm after years of health struggles, including a stroke and a recent hospital stay. “After my stroke, things were not great. I wanted to go to the other side of the world to a place where the people are kind,” he said.
He then added,”The Philippines has a gentler way of life. I never expected to meet Rio and have my life changed in such a wonderful way. I finally feel safe and well-cared for.”
He added that he is currently battling pneumonia but is staying positive as he continues his recovery.
“I’ve got pneumonia, but I’m not feeling sorry for myself because I have Rio taking such good care of me,” he said.
Life in the Philippines Brings a Fresh Start
Markle also spoke about his past, including his long-standing estrangement from his daughter, Meghan Markle, while sharing a more hopeful outlook on where he is today.
“I was sad about Meghan for so long, but now I finally feel like I can laugh again. Life is good,” he said.
He added that he is now focused on the present and the life he has built around him.
“I hardly watch the news. I live in a world where people are kind to each other. The nurses and doctors here in the Philippines are wonderful. People here don’t have all the worldly goods we have in the West,t but they respect and care for older people.”
“There are young trainee nurses here who we call the ‘munchkins’ and all I hear all day long are peals of laughter.”
Looking ahead, Markle said he is embracing a simpler, more peaceful life, one centered on care, companionship, and a renewed sense of happiness.
Read Thomas Markle's full interview here.
That’s nice he has finally found peace within himself and a soulmate. My son now lives in the Philippines from 12 years in Japan. My son likes it there, life is more gentle there but you have to watch for their slick thieves, they think all Americans are wealthy.