The reunion of Prince William, Kate Middleton, Prince Harry, and Meghan Markle at Windsor Castle following the death of Queen Elizabeth II was a significant moment for the royal family.
The couples, once affectionately known as the “Fab Four,” walked side-by-side on Saturday, September 10, 2022, to view floral tributes left for the late monarch. However, body language experts noted that the public display of unity may have masked underlying couple tensions.
This reunion marked the first time the two couples had been seen together since March 2020. While some sources suggest that Prince William extended an olive branch by inviting Harry and Meghan to join him and Kate, experts like Robert Jobson described the reunion as “awkward for everybody” and a necessary formality rather than an attempt at reconciliation.
Body language expert Jesús Enrique Rosas reviewed footage from the event and noted several revealing interactions. Rosas explained on his YouTube channel, Royal Rogue, that Prince Harry directed Meghan away from Prince William and Kate. This subtle behavior indicated the underlying tension among the group.
As the couples were getting ready to depart, Harry directed Meghan to the right side of the car, where he discovered that Kate was already sitting. Harry placed his hands on Meghan’s waist to address the situation and gently guided her to the opposite side. Rosas remarked that this was an exceptionally notable display of body language, highlighting the moment’s awkwardness.
Despite the apparent tensions, Catherine, Princess of Wales, maintained a composed demeanor. “Catherine was walking tall with her hands relaxed and her chin up,” Rosas observed. Even though Catherine may have felt uneasy, she excelled at handling the situation. She exemplified the ideal behavior when sharing the spotlight with others.
Another body language expert, Katia Loisel, analyzed the couples’ interactions during the lying-in-state ceremony for Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Hall. Loisel observed that William and Kate seemed very distressed and had difficulty maintaining their composure during the procession. Their tense body language, marked by furrowed brows and tight facial expressions, indicated their emotional state.
On the other hand, Harry and Meghan’s actions suggested they wanted to connect and support each other. Loisel pointed out that their hand-holding demonstrated a desire for closeness and connection. Meghan provided support and reassurance to Harry through non-verbal signals, emphasizing their affectionate relationship dynamic.
The physical distance between them highlighted the contrast between the two couples. William and Kate exhibited a formal demeanor, whereas Harry and Meghan displayed more physical interactions. Loisel observed that Harry approached Meghan to protect her during this interaction.
Judi James, another body language expert, offered her perspective on the event. She described it as an “adult approach from the new Prince of Wales” but noted the lack of “relaxed engagement or even affection” between the two couples. William, described as the “leader and instigator” of the group, exuded confidence, while Harry displayed “clothing touch anxiety rituals,” indicating his unease.
Kate’s official assumption of the title of Princess of Wales during the reunion was a significant event. She is the first royal family member to hold this title since Princess Diana, and she is expected to shape the role according to her vision. A royal source mentioned that while Kate values the historical significance of the title, she is also keen on focusing on the future as she establishes her unique path in the role.