Meghan Markle's dad has pulled out of the royal wedding. Here's why.

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UPDATE: Thomas Markle has once again spoken to US tabloid website TMZ about his youngest daughter’s upcoming wedding, and why he won’t be in attendance.

“I’ve been popping Valium for the pain, especially when I hear about my oldest daughter,” the 73-year-old said, referring to Meghan Markle’s half-sister, Samantha, giving interviews to breakfast television shows on Monday, US time.

The cinematographer also expressed he was concerned that he was in the early stages of another heart attack, and said he plans on readmitting himself to hospital.

Thomas added he has not heard from Meghan since telling the media he would be skipping her May 19 ceremony and reception.

EARLIER: Just days after he was accused of staging paparazzi photos in exchange for cash, Meghan Markle‘s father Thomas Markle, TMZ reports he will not attend his daughter’s nuptials on Saturday in London.

The gossip site reports the father-of-three meant “no harm” to both Meghan and the royal family when he colluded with photo agencies to set up photos of him preparing for the impending royal wedding.

He also reportedly told TMZ money was not his sole motivator for setting up the photos but instead a desire revive his image. The website wrote he was pictured mostly in “the most unflattering circumstances … buying beer, looking dishevelled and reclusive” before he organised his own shots.

He claims he has recently suffered a heart attack and, although he checked himself out of hospital six days ago, will now not attend the royal wedding.

While refusing to engage with rumours regarding his attendance at the wedding, Kensington Palace issued a statement a little while ago asking for “understanding".

"This is a deeply personal moment for Ms Markle in the days before her wedding,” the statement said.

“She and Prince Harry ask again for understanding and respect to be extended to Mr Markle in this difficult situation."