Prince William appeared “bashful but happy” as Tom Cruise escorted Princess Catherine at a London film premiere, according to an expert. The Prince of Wales stepped back while the Hollywood star offered the princess his hand on the stairs.
Body language expert Judi James said William looked comfortable with the interaction. The moment echoed Cruise’s similar gesture toward Middleton at a 2022 premiere, while the royal couple reunited with him for “Digger” on September 22.
Expert believes Prince William looks ‘bashful but happy’ with Catherine and Tom Cruise interaction
As per The Mirror report, the moment came shortly after their arrival. Prince William and Princess Catherine attended the “Digger” royal gala screening at London’s ODEON Luxe Leicester Square, where Tom Cruise greeted them with a broad smile and applause.
He shook William’s hand firmly before greeting Catherine with kisses on both cheeks. Body language expert Judi James previously said William had appeared “star-struck by Cruise himself” at earlier premieres. This time, she said he looked “bashful but happy” as he watched Cruise escort Catherine once again.
After meeting the director and cast, the couple made their way into the theater. However, Cruise then offered Catherine his hand as they descended the stairs. James said Catherine received his “strongest and warmest signals of approval,” pointing to Cruise’s hand gestures and head tilt during their greeting.
According to James, the actor appeared “blown away by her appearance.” She also highlighted his “relaxed kiss on the cheek” before noting that the interaction was “topped off” by Cruise gallantly taking Catherine’s hand on the steps.
For context, Tom Cruise made a similar gesture at the 2022 “Top Gun: Maverick” premiere when he offered Catherine his hand as she climbed the stairs in a Roland Mouret gown. Meanwhile, Tuesday’s appearance saw Catherine wearing a purple Jenny Packham dress, along with Princess Diana’s pearl drop earrings and the Queen Mother’s amethyst sautoir necklace.
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Cruise also complimented Prince William’s black velvet jacket, calling it a “great jacket.” Still, there was no indication that Catherine was uncomfortable with either man during the exchange.