Prince William was on ‘red alert’ at Trooping the Colour as he appeared on Buckingham Palace’s balcony alongside family.
The Prince of Wales was accompanied by Kate Middleton and their three children as well as Queen Camilla in celebrating King Charles’ official birthday today (Saturday, June 15), watched on by adoring fans. But while some royals appeared relaxed as they enjoyed the Red Arrow flypast, the heir to the throne – who appeared on the balcony last – seemed to have something on his mind.
Body language expert Inbaal Honigman told the Daily Star on behalf of Slingo: “For William to walk last onto the balcony, and then place his hands on the shoulders of the youngest member of the family, shows how seriously he takes his role within the royals, and how protective he is over his family.
READ MORE: ‘Nervous’ Kate Middleton shows ‘caution’ in return but there are signs of ‘genuine’ feeling
Click for more of the latest royal news from the Daily Star.
(Image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
“Even as he stares at the sky [during the flypast], the Prince’s head tilts slightly to the side. This is a ‘listening’ gesture, so even when he’s not looking at the others, his ear is ready to pick up on any signs that someone might need him.
“William’s smile, however genuine, is not completely relaxed. His face is showing some signs of mild tension, with a stiff chin, so he’s on ‘red alert’, ready to attend to anyone who might need him. There’s a very subtle body language clue, which William displays throughout.
(Image: Chris Jackson/Getty Images)
“It’s almost imperceptible, but he bounces on his feet a lot, like a soldier coming to a halt and securing his stand. It shows excess energy, and also confidence. He’s sure that if anyone needs him, he’ll be able to help out.”
It’s perhaps unsurprising William is on such high alert since today’s celebrations also marked Kate Middleton’s first official outing since she announced she had been diagnosed with cancer back in March.
(Image: Neil Mockford/GC Images)
It was previously thought Kate might not attend the event this year, having announced her cancer diagnosis in March. However she has since revealed she is making “good progress” as she continues to receive treatment.
She said on Friday (June 14): “I have been blown away by all the kind messages of support and encouragement over the last couple of months. It really has made the world of difference to William and me and has helped us both through some of the harder times.
“I am making good progress, but as anyone going through chemotherapy will know, there are good days and bad days. On those bad days you feel weak, tired and you have to give in to your body resting.
“But on the good days, when you feel stronger, you want to make the most of feeling well. My treatment is ongoing and will be for a few more months.”
For the latest breaking news and stories from across the globe from the Daily Star, sign up for our newsletters.