Meghan Markle's mother is expected to walk her down the aisle at her wedding to Prince Harry on Saturday (19.05.18)

It has also been speculated that either Harry's father, Prince Charles, or his older brother, Prince William - who is serving as his sibling's Best Man - could take on the role.

While the former 'Suits' star is very close to her mother, friends admitted she has been trying her best to get her father to change his mind.

A source told the MailOnline: "She obviously wants her dad there. And the idea of contemplating him not being there now is not something that she wants to have to do."

Following the claims Thomas won't be attending the wedding, Kensington Palace issued a statement appealing for "understanding".

They wrote: "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."

The reports of Thomas' decision to pull out of the wedding comes after pictures were released that seemingly showed his involvement in an arranged photoshoot with a paparazzi agency.

Meghan's half sister Samantha took responsibility for setting up the controversial photoshoot, but Thomas is thought to have decided to not attend the wedding because he doesn't want to "embarrass the Royal Family or his daughter".

Samantha said: "The media was unfairly making him look bad so I suggested he do positive photos for his benefit and the benefit of the royal family."