The Princess of Wales and singer Jessie J created one of the most poignant moments of this year's Royal Variety Performance, sharing an emotional embrace that spoke volumes about their shared experiences with cancer.
A Moment of Mutual Understanding
Meeting at the star-studded event held at London's Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday 19 November, the two women connected during the traditional royal walkabout where Prince William and Kate Middleton greeted performers. Jessie J, whose real name is Jessica Cornish, had just performed her powerful song I'll Never Know Why, inspired by the tragic suicide of a friend.
The 37-year-old singer, dressed in an all-black outfit that complemented her long dark hair, shared a brief but meaningful conversation with the Princess, who looked elegant in a green velvet gown. Near the end of their exchange, the conversation turned deeply personal, culminating in a heartfelt hug that captured the attention of onlookers.
Bonding Over Cancer Journeys
The emotional embrace was prompted by their mutual experiences battling cancer in recent years. Jessie J was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year and underwent a mastectomy in June. Her health journey continued as she later postponed her autumn tour due to requiring a second operation.
Similarly, Princess Kate has faced her own cancer battle, publicly announcing her diagnosis and chemotherapy treatment in March 2024. While she has been gradually returning to public duties, this marked her first show attendance since her cancer journey began. The Princess shared positive news in January, revealing her cancer was in remission and expressing her focus on recovery.
Explaining the significance of their hug, Jessie J later revealed: "Mum to mum, who has just recently gone through cancer, I just wanted to give her a hug. We acknowledged that it's something that is not easy to go through, especially in the public eye."
Expanding the Conversation to Mental Health
The meaningful exchanges continued as Jessie J also spoke with Prince William about mental health, with the Prince of Wales encouraging her involvement in his charity work on the subject. The Royal Foundation's Heads Together programme, which promotes openness about mental health, appears to be a natural fit for the singer.
Jessie J has been vocal about her own mental health journey, revealing last year that she had been diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). She described how understanding her condition has helped her develop greater self-acceptance, writing on social media about "hugging 11-year-old me" who would clean her trainers with a toothbrush when stressed.
The evening represented more than just another royal engagement - it showcased genuine human connection and mutual support between two women who have faced significant health challenges while living their lives in the public spotlight.
