Prince Harry and Meghan Markle Undertake First Joint UK Engagement
Body language experts and commentators weigh in as the Duke and Duchess of Sussex return to the UK for an extended stay.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle stepped out together for their first joint public appearance in Great Britain since returning to the country for an extended stay with their children. The couple visited Nottingham on October 15, greeting locals, fans, and volunteers from various charitable organizations.
According to body language expert Judi James, who spoke with The Sun, the couple's behavior suggested they wanted to signal they are back in the royal fold, treating their departure of nearly six years ago as a minor glitch. James noted that Prince Harry easily slipped back into the demeanor of a traditional royal.
During conversations with supporters, Harry used a playful gesture of pointless pointing, which James described as a royal classic previously utilized by both his father and his grandfather, Prince Philip. This action, she noted, added an extra layer of royal flair to his return.
In contrast, James observed that Meghan employed deliberate, theatrical gestures intended to be well-received and to convey modest gratitude. During the outing, Meghan reportedly told well-wishers that it was wonderful to be back.
Despite conducting themselves as though they never left their former roles, uncertainty remains regarding whether the Sussexes will be welcomed back as working members of the royal family. A few weeks prior, King Charles issued a statement clarifying that Harry and Meghan are still to be treated as private citizens during public events.
The couple's activities have also sparked speculation about the establishment of a rival court to challenge Prince William and Kate Middleton. Reports indicate that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex intend to remain in the UK for a significant period and continue carrying out quasi-royal engagements independently.
Meanwhile, Princess Kate remains unfazed by these developments. Royal commentator Jennie Bond reported that Kate has encouraged Prince William to keep his focus forward, concentrate on his duties, and avoid paying attention to the actions of the Sussexes.
Bond suggested that the Princess of Wales, who has often acted as a peacemaker within the family and has provided steady support to both her husband and her father-in-law, may view life through a new perspective following her cancer history. Tensions between the brothers have remained high following Harry's previous interviews and his 2023 memoir, 'Spare.'