UPDATE: An emotional moment unfolded at the Royal Variety Performance on October 18, 2023, as the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, shared a heartfelt hug with singer Jessie J following her powerful performance. This poignant interaction was fueled by their shared experiences with cancer, making headlines as a symbol of resilience and support.
The event, held at the iconic Royal Albert Hall, featured an array of performances from renowned entertainers, including the West End cast of Paddington The Musical and Jessie J, who sang her new song “I’ll Never Know Why.” After the show, the royal couple engaged with various artists, including Tom Fletcher from McFly, who expressed his admiration for the musical’s “fantastic” performance.
In a touching exchange, Jessie J, who has recently undergone a mastectomy for breast cancer, shared her feelings with Kate. “Mum to mum, who has just recently gone through cancer, I just wanted to give her a hug,” Jessie J said. “We acknowledged that it’s something that is not easy to go through, especially in the public eye.”
Jessie J’s choice of attire—a casual oversized black hoodie and trousers—sparked discussions among attendees. She explained her outfit choice, stating, “When you feel depressed and you’re on the sofa, you’re not in a sparkling gown… that’s what I wanted to represent in my own way tonight.”
The conversation also touched on mental health, with Prince William inviting Jessie J to collaborate on his charity initiatives. The royal couple is actively engaged in promoting mental health awareness, further underscoring the importance of support during challenging times.
The night was filled with light-hearted moments as well. Sir Stephen Fry, who performed an excerpt from Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance Of Being Earnest,” shared laughs with William about their experiences on the show Celebrity Traitors. “We are bound together by the fact that very few have shared their bizarre experience,” Fry noted.
Closing the show, a cast of 400 performers dazzled the audience with a medley from “Les Miserables,” celebrating the musical’s 40th anniversary. William was seen laughing at a joke made at his expense, showcasing the lighthearted spirit of the evening.
Earlier, Kate received flowers from nine-year-old twins Emelia and Olivia Edwards, whose family is connected to Brinsworth House, a care home supported by the Royal Variety Charity. The princess expressed her children’s disappointment at not being able to attend, stating, “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 for King George V and Queen Mary, continues to raise funds for the Royal Variety Charity, which supports those in the entertainment industry facing health challenges. The show will be broadcast on ITV in December, ensuring that the emotional and lively moments resonate with a wider audience.
As the evening concluded, the bond formed between the Princess of Wales and Jessie J highlighted the significance of community and compassion, especially in the face of adversity. Stay tuned for more updates as the impact of this heartfelt performance continues to unfold.
