Meghan Markle's father has become a "total recluse" since her engagement news was announced.

Meghan Markle

Meghan Markle

The 'Suits' star's half-brother Thomas Markle Jnr. has claimed her dad, Thomas Markle "hates the attention" her engagement to Prince Harry has brought on him after it was confirmed last week.

Tom Jnr. is quoted by The Sun newspaper as saying: "Dad never liked the limelight but since the news came out about Meghan and Harry he's become a total recluse. He hates the attention Meghan's romance has brought on him.

"He loves her but hates the idea of being in the spotlight."

Thomas, 73, is said to be living out his retirement in Rosarito Beach on Mexico's Baja California Peninsula and also spends some time in Los Angeles.

Meghan's father and mother Doria Ragland - who married Thomas in 1979, but they split in 1988 - congratulated Harry and their daughter following the news of their engagement, wishing the couple a "lifetime of happiness" together.

They said in a statement: "We are incredibly happy for Meghan and Harry. Our daughter has always been a kind and loving person. To see her union with Harry, who shares the same qualities, is a source of great joy for us as parents.

"We wish them a lifetime of happiness and are very excited for their future together."

Harry's father Prince Charles announced the pair's news in a royal statement.

It read: "His Royal Highness, the Prince of Wales, is delighted to announce the engagement of Prince Harry to Ms. Meghan Markle.

"The wedding will take place in Spring 2018. Further details about the wedding day will be announced in due course.

"His Royal Highness and Ms. Markle became engaged in London earlier this month.

"Prince Harry has informed The Queen and other close members of The Royal Family.

"Prince Harry has also sought and received the blessing of Ms. Markle's parents.

"The couple will live in Nottingham Cottage at Kensington Palace."