Royal | News - Prince Ricardo De La Cerda
Prince Harry appears to have “fallen” back into his royal role during his latest public appearance as he embraces victims of the ongoing Californian wildfires.
The Duke of Sussex, 40, may have quit life as a full-time working royal five years ago, however some of the mannerisms he had in that role seem to not have left him.
During an unexpected public outing on January 10, Harry could be seen speaking to victims of the Californian wildfires alongside his wife Meghan Markle, 43, as they attended an evacuation site in Pasadena, California.
At the site, the couple helped to distribute food and supplies to victims of the wildfires, just hours after it was revealed they had also donated supplies to those in need.
A body language expert has now assessed the couple’s movements during the emotional public outing, giving an insight into how both Meghan and Harry were behaving.
Expert Judi James exclusively told Express.co.uk: “Meghan uses a variety of different levels of response here to show her reactions to the stories she is hearing.
“Her shoulder touch leads to a very deep hug of consolation followed by responses of horror as she clutches her hands together and even performs a praying hand gesture.
“Harry looks a little distracted at one point and maybe at a loss to know how to react but he mirrors his wife by placing a hand on the woman’s shoulder.
“He appears more assured with the man, cupping the side of his face before offering a very close hug of what looks like sympathy.”
As well as Harry and Meghan being sympathetic to victims and appearing emotional at hearing their stories, Judi noted how Harry looks like he has stepped back into his royal shoes.
Talking about Harry’s actions on Friday, Judi said: “It looks as though he has fallen into the kind of royal role he would have played after tragedies or disasters in the UK, where this kind of photo opportunity would have been seen as a way of boosting morale and ensuring attention.”
Since their appearance on Friday, fans have been quick to praise the couple for their volunteering efforts. One fan wrote: “Meghan Markle and Prince Harry rolled up their sleeves and were distributing food and supplies to the Los Angeles wildfire victims! They even opened up their Montecito home to evacuees! The Duke and the Duchess of Sussex are great human beings who care!”
Another said: “Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s compassion shines brighter than ever as they bring warmth and aid to L.A. wildfire victims. Their visit with World Central Kitchen not only served meals but also hearts, reminding us of the power of community and kindness in difficult times.”