The Prince and Princess of Wales provided a masterclass in understated romance during their appearance at the 98th Royal Variety Performance in London, with a series of intimate gestures that have sent royal enthusiasts into a delighted frenzy.
A Clandestine Moment of Affection
Before the couple made their glamorous entrance on the red carpet at the Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday evening, a tender moment unfolded within their chauffeured car. Prince William, 43, was captured on video appearing to air kiss his wife's hand, a sweet and seemingly spontaneous act of affection that occurred just before they stepped into the spotlight.
This private display of devotion did not go unnoticed. Once the video circulated, fans quickly took to social media to express their admiration. One admirer gushed on X, formerly known as Twitter, 'Oh my goodness, how can you not love this couple. These small gestures say more than PDA [public displays of affection].' Another observer added, 'They are so in love with each other. William has always been affectionate with Catherine but now he openly shows it.'
Glamour and Historic Jewels
The outing marked a rare joint 'black tie' evening for William and Kate, coming just after the Prince attended the Diplomatic Corps reception at Windsor Castle alone the night before. The Princess of Wales ensured all eyes were on her, choosing a stunning new emerald green velvet gown believed to be from the German luxury fashion brand Talbot Runhof.
She elevated her look with truly regal accessories. Kate wore the exquisite Greville chandelier earrings by Cartier, which were once a favourite of the late Queen Elizabeth II. On her right wrist was the magnificent Queen Mary Choker Bracelet, a diamond-laden piece reserved for the most significant royal engagements.
This historic jewellery item has a fascinating provenance. It was originally designed in the 1920s for Mary of Teck, the wife of King George V, and can be worn as either a choker or a bracelet. After Mary's death in 1953, it disappeared into the royal vaults for nearly two decades until the Queen Mother wore it for her 75th birthday portraits. Following the Queen Mother's death in 2002, it was inherited by Queen Elizabeth II but remained unworn until she loaned it to Kate for the 2015 Chinese State Banquet. The Princess has since worn it for several luminous occasions, including a 2017 Gala Dinner in Paris.
Meeting the Stars Backstage
William and Kate's time at the Royal Variety Performance also involved meeting performers backstage, including singer Jessie J and the star of the new West End Show, Paddington Bear. William shook hands with the beloved character, acted by Arti Shah, and commented on how 'yummy' the bear's signature marmalade sandwich looked.
Kate revealed that their three children would be heartbroken to have missed the encounter. While chatting to nine-year-old twins, Emelie and Olivia Edwards, before the annual charity event, the Princess said, 'My kiddies will be very sad [to have missed the show], we are going to have to keep it a big secret.' She added, 'They were very sad not to be joining us,' while bringing a finger to her lips.
The evening was a showcase of both their official duties and their genuine connection, with William's princely behaviour—from the discreet hand kiss to guiding Kate with a hand on the small of her back—cementing their status as a beloved royal couple in the eyes of the public.
