Prince William and Princess Kate made a glamorous return to the red carpet for the 2025 Royal Variety Performance at the Royal Albert Hall in London. The annual charity gala raised spirits – and funds – in support of the Royal Variety Charity, with the royal couple in attendance for what marked a particularly meaningful evening.
A Stylish Comeback
Kate, radiant in her first public appearance since announcing her remission, turned heads in an elegant emerald green velvet gown by Talbot Runhof. Paired with dramatic Greville diamond chandelier earrings once owned by Queen Elizabeth, her look combined classic royal glamour with a deeply personal touch. Prince William looked equally sharp in a velvet-trimmed black tuxedo and bow tie, making it a picture-perfect royal date night.
A Heartfelt Evening
The performance, hosted by comedian Jason Manford, included highlights from Paddington The Musical, singer-songwriter Jessie J, Icelandic jazz artist Laufey, and a grand, 400-performer finale marking the 40th anniversary of Les Misérables.
After watching Jessie J perform her emotionally raw track I’ll Never Know Why, inspired by loss and mental health struggles, Kate embraced the singer in a touching, mother-to-mother moment. Jessie J later shared that the hug came as they connected deeply over their shared experiences with cancer. Meanwhile, William delighted in meeting Paddington Bear on stage, complimenting the bear’s marmalade sandwich in a light-hearted exchange with the cast.
A Personal Touch
The couple’s arrival carried extra emotional weight this year. It was Kate’s first time back at the show since her cancer recovery, and she shared how much she missed having her young children beside her. “My kiddies were very sad not to be joining us,” she told nine-year-old twins Emelia and Olivia, the children of staff at Brinsworth House, a care home supported by the Royal Variety Charity.
William and Kate also took time to meet key performers after the show, including Tom Fletcher from McFly, who composed Paddington The Musical. The Prince told Fletcher he found the performance “fantastic.”
Why It Matters
The Royal Variety Performance isn’t just a glitzy night out – it’s an important fundraiser for thousands of people in the entertainment industry who need support. Prince William has long championed mental health awareness, and last night offered him a heartfelt opportunity to connect with artists like Jessie J who have experienced very real challenges.
After a trying few years for the royal family – including Kate’s illness – their appearance symbolised strength, hope and a shared commitment to causes close to their hearts.
In a couple of understated but truly royal moments – from laughter in the royal box to warm hugs post-show – William and Kate showed that charity, compassion and connection remain at the heart of their public life.
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