Wills and Kate show Harry and Meg what they’re missing on a glam royal night out
Harry and Meghan might not like it, but these two do
There’s no denying that when Prince Harry and Meghan Markle decided to quit the royal family, they put extra pressure on Prince William and Kate Middleton. They’ll now have to do a lot more official duties, but we’re told they want to prove that being a member of The Firm is worth it – and that it’s not all a slog.
Last week, the couple took time out from their recent run of charity visits to attend the EE BAFTAS – where William, the Academy’s president, took to the stage and spoke about the lack of diversity at the awards – and they were keen to be seen enjoying themselves after all the drama. “Both William and Kate now feel as though it is their priority to prove that royal duty is worth the sacrifice,” our insider says. “Everyone feels hurt on behalf of the Queen and the way that she was treated. Since Meghan and
Harry stepped back, Kate and William have upped their game, making more public appearances and doing more charity work – they want to continue shining a light on all the projects that are close to them. William has been president of BAFTA for the past decade and he was determined to show up, despite everything that has gone on with his brother. It also sends a message to Harry and Meghan that royal life can be glamorous, something which is clearly important to Meghan.”
During the ceremony, William and Kate – who both recycled outfits they’d worn before as part of the show’s sustainability pledge – looked very happy as they chatted to people around them. They even laughed at Brad Pitt’s joke about Megxit in his acceptance speech. The actor couldn’t make it, so he got his co-star Margot Robbie to read his words – joking that he was going to name his award Harry, as it was going back to America. They also took time to meet the winners afterwards – including Renée Zellweger, Joaquin Phoenix and EE Rising Star recipient Micheal Ward – and we’re told the couple wanted to use the occasion to mark a fresh start.
“They want to show that it is possible to lead a full life and exist within the rules of the royal family,” we’re told. “Kate and her family suffered a great deal of speculation when she first began seeing William, and she rode that out with grace and dignity. Now, Kate feels as though it’s time for her and William to bring the conversation back to them being working royals, and let Harry and Meghan have their wish of being left alone.” ■