Meghan Markle Issues Statement on Her Father

The "will he" or "won't he" debate is finally settled. Meghan Markle's father, Thomas Markle, will not attend his daughter's wedding Saturday to Prince Harry, the soon-to-be royal confirmed in a statement Thursday, per CNN. "I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health," she said, prompting speculation about who will walk her down the aisle.

The elder Markle, left embarrassed by a paparazzi photo scandal, says he suffered a heart attack last week. He told TMZ he was scheduled for heart surgery Wednesday. Doctors "will go in and clear blockage, repair damage and put a stent where it is needed," the former Hollywood lighting director said. He's now thought to be recovering. (More royal wedding stories.)