UPDATE: The Princess of Wales and singer Jessie J shared a heartfelt hug following the Royal Variety Performance at Royal Albert Hall on November 8, 2023. This emotional moment came after both women discussed their experiences with cancer, highlighting the significance of their connection.
The Royal couple, William and Kate, attended the star-studded event where they were entertained by a host of renowned performers, including the cast of Paddington The Musical and singer-songwriter Jessie J. After the show, which featured a dazzling medley of songs to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Les Miserables, the royal couple engaged with several artists, including Tom Fletcher, the creator behind the new Paddington musical.
During their interaction, William praised the performance as “fantastic” before shaking hands with the beloved character, Paddington Bear. The lighthearted exchange included a nod to the bear’s signature marmalade sandwich, which William complimented, saying, “Your sandwich looks very nice.”
Jessie J, who recently underwent a mastectomy for breast cancer, performed her new song “I’ll Never Know Why,” inspired by the loss of a friend to suicide. After sharing her story with the Princess, who wore a stunning floor-length green velvet gown, the two embraced in a powerful moment of solidarity. Jessie expressed her feelings, stating, “Mum to mum, who has just recently gone through cancer, I just wanted to give her a hug.”
The singer, dressed in an oversized black hoodie and trousers, addressed the mixed reactions from attendees, emphasizing that her outfit represented the struggles of mental health and the reality of feeling down. “Some people say, ‘Oh, you’re not dressed up,’ but that’s the whole point,” she remarked, shedding light on her personal journey.
Mental health was a key topic during Jessie’s conversation with William, who encouraged her to get involved with his charity work focused on this pressing issue. The royal couple’s willingness to engage in such relevant conversations underscores their commitment to supporting mental health initiatives.
In another light-hearted moment, Sir Stephen Fry entertained the audience with an excerpt from Oscar Wilde’s The Importance Of Being Earnest. Fry humorously discussed his recent experience on the show Celebrity Traitors, revealing that many participants share a unique bond over their “bizarre experience.”
To conclude the evening, a cast of 400 performers took the stage, delivering a special performance that had William laughing at a joke made at his expense.
Earlier in the night, the Princess of Wales was presented with flowers by nine-year-old twins Emelia and Olivia Edwards, whose family are connected to Brinsworth House, a care home for entertainment industry workers supported by the Royal Variety Charity. Kate expressed her children’s disappointment at not being able to attend the show, sharing, “My kiddies were very sad, we’re going to have to keep it a big secret that I saw you guys.”
The Royal Variety Performance, first held in 1912, continues to be a vital fundraising event for those in the entertainment industry facing health challenges. The show will be aired on ITV in December, allowing audiences to relive the unforgettable moments of the night.
This year’s performance not only showcased incredible talent but also highlighted the importance of community and support in facing life’s challenges. As the evening wrapped up, the emotional connections made between the Princess of Wales, Jessie J, and other artists will resonate long after the curtain closes. Keep an eye out for the broadcast—this is an event you won’t want to miss!
