In a poignant moment that transcended royal tradition, singer Jessie J has shared intimate details of a heartfelt embrace with the Princess of Wales, bonding over their mutual journeys through cancer treatment.
A Moment of Shared Understanding Breaks Protocol
The moving encounter took place on November 20, 2025, at the glamorous Royal Variety Performance. Jessie J, 37, met both the Princess of Wales, 43, and the Prince of Wales at the event. The pair shared a tender conversation centred on their individual health battles, which led the singer to ask for a hug.
Speaking to host Maggie Rulli on Good Morning America on Friday, December 5, Jessie J recounted the conversation. "She just said, 'Thank you, I know you've gone through a tough time.' I said, 'I know you have too,'" the singer revealed. "I just said, 'I want to acknowledge that, mum to mum, cancer survivor to cancer survivor. I see you, and I feel you. Can I give you a hug?'"
Traditionally, touching a member of the Royal Family is not permitted, but the Princess granted permission. "She said, 'Of course you can.' I'm grateful she received it in the way it was meant," Jessie J added, highlighting Kate's care and compassion.
Parallel Journeys Through Cancer Treatment
The meeting was deeply personal for both women. Kate revealed earlier this year that she was in remission from an undisclosed form of cancer. She underwent major abdominal surgery in January 2024, was subsequently diagnosed, and finished a course of preventative chemotherapy in September 2024. By January 2025, she announced she was in remission.
Jessie J underwent a mastectomy in June 2025 as part of her treatment for breast cancer, forcing her to cancel US tour dates. In a recent ABC interview, she stated that while her cancer was caught early and was non-invasive, she acknowledges the possibility of its return. "I know there's a chance it could come back but until then we're living life," she said.
Both have spoken candidly about the ordeal. Kate has described a cancer diagnosis as "life-changing" and the recovery a "rollercoaster," emphasising a holistic "mind, body and spirit" approach. She noted the difficulty of the post-treatment phase, saying finding a "new normal" takes time.
A New Generation of Relaxed Royals
The warm hug signifies a shift in royal engagements. While past royals strictly adhered to protocols, the new generation, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, are known for a more relaxed style. They have been seen holding hands with, hugging, and even taking selfies with members of the public during official duties.
Kate has been undertaking a slow and measured return to public life over the past year. She recently hosted her fifth annual Christmas carol concert at Westminster Abbey on Friday, December 5. She attended with Prince William and their three children, Prince George, 12, Princess Charlotte, 10, and Prince Louis, 7, alongside other royals and celebrity guests.
The encounter between the Princess and the pop star stands as a powerful, human moment of solidarity, demonstrating shared resilience in the face of personal adversity and the evolving, compassionate face of the modern monarchy.
