The Princess of Wales kept her composure and distance amid strained family dynamics following Queen Elizabeth’s death.
Catherine reportedly found herself in a challenging position during the Windsor walkabout after Queen Elizabeth’s passing in 2022, as tensions between the royal couples remained high. Body language expert Judi James described the moment as a “baptism of fire” for the Princess of Wales, who was said to be balancing personal restraint with public duty.
According to James, Catherine appeared to be on a “rescue mission for William,” adopting a calm and measured stance to keep the appearance of unity while avoiding unnecessary friction. Her body language, the expert noted, reflected “a very focused future Queen” determined to honour the late monarch with dignity and composure.
Observers pointed out that Catherine maintained a noticeable physical distance from the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Insiders said this was a deliberate decision, allowing her to focus on the solemnity of the occasion rather than risk any public tension. James suggested that Catherine’s behaviour mirrored “the decisive firmness and resolve” once associated with Queen Elizabeth II herself.
The Princess of Wales reportedly confided to a senior aide that the walkabout was emotionally taxing, given the ongoing rift with Harry and Meghan. Despite the “Fab Four” appearing momentarily united as they greeted mourners, James observed subtle signs of discomfort, describing their interactions as “dithering” and uncharacteristically uncoordinated.
“Royals don’t do dither very well,” she explained. “They are usually well-prepped and poised, but here it seemed that William, Kate, and even Harry were checking something with Meghan at the last moment.”
For Catherine, the day was more than just a public appearance—it was a delicate exercise in diplomacy, composure, and loyalty during one of the family’s most fragile moments.
