Meghan Markle and Prince Harry encountered an apparently awkward instance upon their arrival at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City for the Time100 Summit on Wednesday, April 23. As they exited their vehicle, Prince Harry reached for Meghan’s hand, but she was already engaged in greeting a woman who awaited them.
Harry briefly stood alone, adjusting his clothing while observing Meghan embrace the acquaintance. Shortly thereafter, he proceeded to follow Meghan towards the building’s entrance. Meghan turned as Harry caught up, and they entered together.
Body language expert Judi James analyzed the interaction and suggested Harry appeared to play the “spare” role, exhibiting “awkward-looking body language poses while a more assured Meghan takes the starring role.”
The term “spare” is significant for Harry, referencing his position as Prince William’s younger sibling, a label he embraced for his 2023 memoir.
James noted Meghan seemed to lead the arrival. “By the time they’re arriving for the greetings it seems to be Meghan very much in the lead while Harry lurks behind,” she explained.
The expert highlighted Meghan’s use of specific non-verbal cues to assert her presence, such as her arms bent at a 45-degree angle, with hands in what James termed a “celebrity wilt,” suggesting specialness and status power.
Meghan engaged with cameras and initiated greetings while Harry waited, a dynamic James described as “unthinkable during his time in the royal family.” She observed Harry’s open jacket and a more intense expression compared to Meghan’s.
The Sussexes arrived at the event with a four-car motorcade, including another SUV and two unmarked police vehicles. Security personnel accompanied them.
Harry chose a dark suit for the occasion, while Meghan, founder of the lifestyle brand “As Ever,” wore a tan blazer with matching pants, a white top, and heels.
During the summit, Meghan spoke about her current happiness. “To have a partner and a husband who is so supportive and have healthy kids who are so joyful,” she stated. “I never would have imagined at this point I would feel so happy and grateful and I really do.”
The couple has two children: Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, three. Meghan shared with the audience her hope to return to Montecito, California, before Archie loses his first baby tooth. “I just hope I’m back home in time for it!” she remarked.
According to Elle, this milestone was significant enough for Meghan that the couple skipped the Time100 Gala the next night, prioritizing her return to California.
Despite the seemingly awkward moment upon arrival, other experts offered varied interpretations. Expert Darren Stanton suggested Harry played a supportive role, allowing Meghan to take the spotlight.
The Sussexes have engaged in multiple projects since moving to the U.S. Meghan recently launched a Netflix show, a podcast, and her lifestyle brand “As Ever,” discussing at the summit her approach to allowing space for mistakes during these ventures.
Residing in a $14 million Montecito mansion since 2020, the couple stepped back from royal duties and remains estranged from Harry’s family, with reports of ongoing tensions.
In addition to the Time100 Summit, they unveiled the #NoChildLostToSocialMedia memorial during their New York visit, highlighting their dedication to safer online spaces for children.
Their public appearances draw significant media and public interest, with analyses of their interactions and body language offering insights into their personal dynamics and adjustment to life outside the royal family.
