King Charles appeared 'less assured' than Prince William as the Royal Family arrived at the Commonwealth Day service at Westminster Abbey on Monday, according to a body language expert. The event was overshadowed by anti-monarchy protesters who demanded answers about the Prince Andrew scandal, holding placards reading 'Abolish the monarchy' and 'Charles, what did you know?'.
Body language expert Judi James told the Mirror that the Prince and Princess of Wales showed 'peak confidence' as they ignored the protesters. She noted their classic navy outfits, William's brisk military-style gait, and the couple's synchronised walk as signs of determination to 'just get on with the job'.
In contrast, James said King Charles displayed 'anxious' behaviours, including four acts of 'auto-contact' such as pushing his hand into his jacket pocket and straightening his tie, which she described as 'self-soothing rituals prompted by inner anxiety'.
Once inside the abbey, the senior royals greeted each other warmly with kisses and comforting touches. James described the group as a 'survivors club', noting that Charles appeared 'almost surprised and delighted' to see his family, throwing his arms out to his son and sister in mimed hugs.
The Commonwealth Day service was the first major royal event since Prince Andrew's arrest, with senior royals including the King, Queen Camilla, the Prince and Princess of Wales, and the Princess Royal in attendance.
