Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has once again found herself in the eye of a media storm. This time, it’s due to a surprising initiative by Lady Colin Campbell, a prominent critic of Meghan, who has launched a fundraising campaign for Thomas Markle, Meghan’s estranged father. The fundraiser was set up just four days after Thomas celebrated his 80th birthday without any contact from his daughter.

Lady Colin Campbell, known for her outspoken criticism of Meghan Markle, has taken an unexpected step by creating a GoFundMe campaign titled “Lady C Celebrating Thomas Markle Sr’s 80th Birthday.” The campaign aims to raise funds for Thomas Markle and calls on the public to acknowledge and support him.

In the campaign’s description, Lady Colin praises Thomas for his generosity and kindness, noting his contributions to Meghan’s upbringing and the film community. She also criticizes Meghan for her estrangement from her father, stating: “Now that he has been rejected and abandoned by the daughter, those of us who wish to show him solidarity and give him the acknowledgment he should be getting from the actual recipient of his largesse will hopefully demonstrate to him that there are still people in the world with good hearts, good values, and good intentions.”

Lady Colin Campbell has made headlines before with her bold opinions about the Sussexes, but this fundraiser has caught many by surprise. By associating herself with Thomas Markle’s plight, she has amplified the ongoing tensions between Meghan and her father, drawing further public attention to the family drama.

The strained relationship between Meghan Markle and her father has been a subject of public interest since 2018. Their relationship reportedly deteriorated after Thomas Markle staged paparazzi photos before Meghan’s wedding to Prince Harry. Despite their past closeness, the event marked a turning point in their relationship.

In the days leading up to the royal wedding, Thomas suffered two heart attacks, which prevented him from attending the ceremony and walking Meghan down the aisle. Since then, communication between Meghan and her father has been virtually nonexistent. Thomas Markle has never met Prince Harry, nor has he met his grandchildren, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet.

On his 80th birthday, Thomas Markle expressed a mix of pride and disappointment. In an interview with the Daily Mail, he said, “I’ve had a good life, and I am proud of what I’ve accomplished, but everything has been overshadowed by what has happened in the last six years. I’ve never been one for birthdays, but I know the one person I most want to hear from, Meghan, won’t be in touch.”

This statement reflects the deep emotional impact of the estrangement on Thomas Markle, who feels overshadowed by the ongoing rift with his daughter.

Lady Colin Campbell’s fundraiser has sparked a wave of public sympathy for Thomas Markle, with more than £3,300 raised since its inception. The campaign’s success is seen by many as a sign of public support for Thomas and an implicit criticism of Meghan for her perceived abandonment of her father.

The fundraiser has also intensified the backlash against Meghan, with critics arguing that she has neglected her family responsibilities. The public’s divided opinion on the Duchess of Sussex highlights the complex and often contentious nature of her relationship with the media and the broader public.

Meghan Markle has faced various controversies since marrying into the British royal family, from her departure from royal duties to her strained family relationships. This latest episode adds to the ongoing narrative of tension and scrutiny surrounding her life.

The fundraising campaign initiated by Lady Colin Campbell not only brings attention to Thomas Markle’s situation but also raises questions about the broader implications of family estrangement and public perception. It underscores the challenges of navigating family dynamics in the public eye and the role of media in shaping narratives.

For Meghan Markle, the situation serves as a reminder of the persistent scrutiny she faces, both from critics and the public. As the Duchess of Sussex continues to forge her path in the United States alongside Prince Harry, the delicate balance between personal relationships and public perception remains a significant aspect of her journey.

Lady Colin Campbell’s fundraiser for Thomas Markle highlights the enduring complexities of family relationships, especially when played out on the global stage. The campaign has not only provided financial support for Thomas but has also reignited discussions about Meghan Markle’s family dynamics and public image.

As the fundraiser continues to gain traction, it remains to be seen how Meghan will respond, if at all, to this latest development. The Duchess of Sussex’s journey is marked by both admiration and criticism, and her ability to navigate these challenges will undoubtedly shape her legacy in the years to come.