The Princess of Wales shared that her children George, Charlotte, and Louis might be a little jealous after she and Prince William enjoyed a very special meet and greet with Paddington Bear at the Royal Albert Hall.
The royal couple joined stars like Jessie J, Matt Lucas, and host Jason Manford for the annual Royal Variety Performance, a charity event that supports professionals from the entertainment industry.
Both Catherine and William were charmed by the iconic marmalade-loving bear, with William even complimenting Paddington on his sandwich and singing skills.
“Can I shake your hand? Your sandwich looks very nice,” the future king said, beaming as Paddington tipped his hat.
A Night of Glamour in the Heart of London
Arriving at the venue, Catherine dazzled in a green velvet gown, thought to be from Talbot Runhof, complemented by Cartier Greville chandelier earrings once worn by the late Queen Elizabeth II.
William looked elegant in black tie and a velvet jacket, making for a rare joint “black tie” appearance for the couple.
Despite the chill and sleet outside, crowds gathered near Kensington Palace to catch a glimpse of the royals, who were greeted by senior figures from the Royal Albert Hall and the Royal Variety Charity.
Warm Welcomes and Winter Blooms
Before taking their seats, Catherine was handed a beautiful bouquet of winter woodland-themed flowers by nine-year-old twins, Emelie and Olivia Edwards.
Catherine remarked on how sweet they were and joked about keeping the event a secret from her own children, who would have been disappointed to miss the performance.
William joined in the conversation, complimenting the children on their smiles and accepting the event programmes graciously.
It was a warm and charming prelude to an evening of spectacular performances.
Magical Moments and Hilarious Laughs
The evening’s entertainment kicked off with Jason Manford as host and included performances from Paddington The Musical, Jessie J, and a 40th-anniversary medley of Les Misérables.
Comedian Mick Miller had the audience roaring, while magician and Britain’s Got Talent winner Henry Moulding delivered a mind-blowing trick involving the King himself.
Audience members were asked for random numbers, times, and countries, only to see them perfectly predicted in a pre-recorded video showing Henry at Buckingham Palace.
William and Catherine watched the act, clearly impressed by the clever tribute to the monarch’s 50-year Magic Circle membership.
Highlighting Mental Health and Industry Support
The Royal Variety Performance also showcased a powerful message about mental health within the entertainment industry.
A video revealed that 87% of industry professionals have faced mental health struggles, from depression to anxiety, and highlighted the charity’s dedicated support initiatives, including Brinsworth House, often called the Old Pro’s Paradise.
Finale of Song, Flags, and Confetti
The grand finale featured 400 performers singing a Les Misérables medley, complete with drummers, a marching chorus, and flags waving from the dress circle.
The performance concluded with “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” as the audience, including William and Catherine, rose for a standing ovation.
Afterward, the royal couple met performers backstage, including a final, playful encounter with Paddington Bear.
William complimented the bear again, while Catherine laughed and chatted with the cast, marking a joyful end to the night.
A Royal Return After Recovery
This was the sixth time William and Catherine attended the Royal Variety Performance together, and Catherine’s first since her cancer recovery.
The couple’s presence highlighted both the entertainment industry’s vital work and the ongoing royal commitment to charity.
The Royal Variety Performance will air across ITV1, ITVX, STV, and STV Player this December, allowing viewers nationwide to experience a night of magic, music, and royal charm.
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