The likely candidates to fill Thomas Markle’s role at the royal wedding

NOW that Meghan Markle’s dad’s out, there’s plenty of speculation about who will walk her down the aisle at her wedding to Prince Harry. Here are the likely candidates.

MEGHAN Markle is reportedly “distraught” following her father’s shock decision to pull out of attending her wedding to Prince Harry this weekend.

The famously reclusive former TV lighting director has been embarrassed on the world stage this week, amid revelations he set up a series of paparazzi photos in his Mexican hometown, reportedly earning himself around $180,000.

There are also reports Thomas, 73, suffered a heart attack less than a week ago.

Thomas Markle has reportedly pulled out. Picture: Rachpoot/MEGA

Following the news he would no longer be attending, a Kensington Palace spokesman said: “This is a deeply personal moment for Ms Markle in the days before her wedding. She and Prince Harry ask again for understanding and respect to be extended to Mr Markle in this difficult situation.”

Given the sudden turn of events, Meghan has been left without anyone to walk her down the aisle in St George’s Chapel in Windsor Castle on Saturday.

So who’s in the running to take on the job?

1. DORIA RAGLAND

Doria Ragland, 61, is the most obvious choice to take over.

Meghan is incredibly close with her mother and has often gushed about their relationship in past interviews.

Doria has also already bonded with her future son-in-law, who she met at the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games in Toronto last year.

During Meghan and Harry’s engagement interview, the Prince described Doria as “awesome”.

The original plan for the wedding day was for Meghan and Doria to spend the night before the wedding with her at Cliveden House, with the pair then travelling to the ceremony together.

Upon arrival, Meghan was supposed to be greeted by her father, who would then walk her down the aisle. However, now that he’s pulled out, it’s possible Doria will take over.

Meghan and Doria are very close. Picture: Instagram

2. PRINCE CHARLES

Technically, with the absence of a grandfather or father there on the day, Meghan’s future father-in-law is the next closest thing.

It’s therefore entirely possible that Prince Charles will offer to do the honours.

After all, Charles has no other official duty during the wedding, and has made it clear just how excited he and the Duchess of Cornwall are to welcome Meghan into their family.

Prince Charles may offer to step in. Picture: SPI/MEGA

3. PRINCE WILLIAM

While Prince William already has an important job on the day as Harry’s best man, he is also considered an option should Meghan be unable to find someone to walk her down the aisle.

William and his wife have spent a fair bit of time with his future sister-in-law since she began her relationship with Harry, and the pair seemed to have formed a good friendship.

While a little out of left field, the idea has precedent.

In 1960, Princess Margaret’s brother-in-law Prince Philip walked her down the aisle at her wedding to Antony Armstrong-Jones in 1960, as her father had passed away eight years earlier.

Prince William is another option. Picture: AFP Photo/Adrian Dennis Who is Meghan Markle?