Though the royal wedding is somewhat behind us, some folks would like to know what went on behind the scenes. Meghan Markle’s estranged yet dysfunctional family kept jumping into the spotlight, but it didn’t take away from the splendor of the day.

A few days before the wedding, personal details about Thomas Markle – Meghan’s father – emerged in the media about his health and will-he or won’t-he attend. Health woes ultimately led to him backing out at the last minute, leading Ms. Markle to issue a statement through Kensington Palace.

“Sadly, my father will not be attending our wedding. I have always cared for my father and hope he can be given the space he needs to focus on his health.

I would like to thank everyone who has offered generous messages of support. Please know how much Harry and I look forward to sharing our special day with you on Saturday.”

In the past, the new duchess has expressed how very close she is to both of her parents, but that didn’t stop paparazzi and the media from stirring the pot. Everything from “the Queen is livid” to dad and daughter not being on good terms have created headlines.

While she seemingly settled one debate on whether he would walk her down the aisle, folks are now curious about if the two spoke on her big day. Apparently, they did not.

It is totally understandable given that he was recovering from heart surgery and she was tied up with well, wedding stuff— on another side of the planet. This video from Wochit cites some scoop from USWeekly that claims Meghan did not reach out by phone before the ceremony.

But that doesn’t necessarily mean there were any permanently hurt or hard feelings. Thomas Markle did receive a call from Meghan days before the wedding where she expressed her love for him and concern about his health. He was also grateful that Prince Charles could step up in his stead.

Like many, Markle watched the ceremony on television, mesmerized by the affair. He then released a statement or two about his daughter’s nuptials:

“My baby looks beautiful and she looks very happy. I wish I were there and I wish them all my love and all happiness.”

He also told TMZ that he was joyful and wished he could be there, and that he loves his daughter very much. Along with his well wishes for the newlyweds, he also had some words about his side of the family:

“My baby girl is a duchess and I love her so much… When you watch your child get married, every thought goes through your mind, every memory from the first day she was born, the first time I held her.

Now I pray that Harry and Meghan can go on a nice honeymoon and rest and relax, and all of my relatives will just shut up about everything.”

Here here! It is true that he missed out a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, but here’s to hoping that he makes a speedy recovery and gets to hang out with the couple soon.

Can you relate to this family’s unfortunate situation? Do you feel for Meghan or her father?