
Kate Middleton was seen warmly embracing members of the public during a garden party at Buckingham Palace, subtly challenging a past claim made by Meghan Markle.
The Princess of Wales attended Tuesday’s event alongside Prince William and other royals. While her bright yellow dress captured attention, it was Kate’s heartfelt hugs that left a lasting impression—seemingly in contrast to Meghan’s earlier remarks suggesting the royals were uncomfortable with physical affection.
In the 2022 Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex described her first meeting with Kate and William, implying that the couple had difficulty with casual displays of warmth.
Meghan recalled, “When Will and Kate came over and I was meeting her (Kate) for the first time I remember, I was in ripped jeans, I was barefoot.”

She continued, “Like, I was a hugger, I have always been a hugger. I didn’t realize that is really jarring for a lot of Brits.”