The Princess of Wales has made a poignant return to public life, attending the Royal Variety Performance alongside Prince William in their first joint appearance since her cancer treatment.
A Royal Return Marked by Family Moments
Walking the red carpet at London's Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday 19th November 2025, the royal couple received a warm welcome from nine-year-old twins Emelia and Olivia Edwards, who presented them with posies. The twins' family works at a care home for entertainment industry workers.
Dressed in an elegant green velvet gown, Princess Kate immediately connected with the young girls about the evening's headline act. "My kiddies were very sad, we're going to have to keep it a big secret that I saw you guys," the princess confessed, referring to Paddington The Musical cast members. "They were very sad not to be joining us."
Paddington Takes Centre Stage
The princess explained that she had to inform her children they couldn't attend because children weren't permitted at the prestigious event. This marked the sixth time William and Kate have attended the annual charity gathering, which was first staged in 1912 for King George V and Queen Mary.
Meanwhile, Prince William, looking sharp in a tuxedo, engaged in lighthearted conversation with the twins. When Olivia revealed her favourite singer was Billie Eilish, the prince complimented her taste, saying: "It's very nice to see you both. You're very smiley, you two."
The evening's entertainment featured not only the Paddington cast but also performances by pop star Jessie J and Grammy award-winning singer Laufey.
Supporting the Entertainment Community
The royals were greeted on the red carpet by ITV board members and representatives from the Royal Variety Charity, of which King Charles serves as royal patron. Executive producer Giles Cooper expressed that the charity was "thrilled" about the prince and princess's attendance.
Mr Cooper, who also chairs the charity, highlighted the event's significance: "This annual great British institution, viewed by a worldwide TV audience of over 150 million, continues to be a crucial fundraising event supporting people in all areas of performance."
He particularly emphasised the importance of their mental health initiative, launched in 2024, describing it as "a lifeline for many who are experiencing issues such as anxiety, depression or addiction."
The appearance follows Princess Kate's first speech since her cancer diagnosis, delivered just yesterday at the Future Workforce Summit, where she urged business leaders to value "time and tenderness just as much as productivity and success."
