The Prince and Princess of Wales made their first appearance at the Royal Variety Performance since Kate's recovery from cancer, with the princess revealing their children were 'very sad' to miss the Paddington-themed spectacle.
A Glamorous Royal Return
On Wednesday 19th November 2025, William and Kate stepped onto the red carpet at the Royal Albert Hall in London, marking a significant return to the spotlight. The Prince of Wales looked sophisticated in a classic tuxedo, while the Princess captivated in an elegant green velvet gown.
This event represented their sixth attendance at the annual charity gala but held special significance as their first major public engagement following Kate's cancer treatment. The royal couple were formally greeted by ITV board members and representatives from the Royal Variety Charity, which supports entertainment industry workers.
Sweet Exchanges and Family Disappointment
The human side of the evening emerged when nine-year-old twins Emelia and Olivia Edwards, whose family work at the charity-supported Brinsworth House care home, presented Kate with a bouquet.
After inquiring if the girls were Paddington fans, the princess confided about her children's disappointment. 'My kiddies were very sad, we're going to have to keep it a big secret that I saw you guys,' Kate told the twins. She explained she had to inform Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis that children were not permitted to attend the prestigious show.
When the girls presented William with the evening's programme, he warmly thanked them, commenting 'You two look very pretty tonight.' After Olivia revealed her admiration for singer Billie Eilish, the prince praised her excellent musical taste, describing both twins as 'very smiley' - a quality the princess called 'infectious.'
A Star-Studded Evening of Entertainment
The 2025 Royal Variety Performance featured an impressive lineup headlined by the cast of Paddington The Musical, undoubtedly the main attraction that disappointed the young royals.
The entertainment roster included pop sensation Jessie J, who recently underwent mastectomy surgery for breast cancer, and Grammy award-winning singer Laufey. The evening also showcased performances by English band Madness and actor Sir Stephen Fry, recently famous for his appearance on Celebrity Traitors.
Hosted by comedian Jason Manford, the programme featured Strictly Come Dancing's Johannes Radebe performing an extract from Kinky Boots, while singer-songwriters Sir Bob Geldof and Midge Ure introduced a special performance from the Live Aid musical Just For One Day.
The grand finale celebrated the 40th anniversary of Les Miserables with a spectacular medley involving 400 performers, including Michael Ball, Matt Lucas, and Katy Secombe.
Established in 1912 for King George V and Queen Mary, the Royal Variety Performance continues its tradition of raising funds for the Royal Variety Charity, providing crucial support for those who have dedicated their lives to the entertainment industry.
