New analysis from a body language expert suggests that, even before “Megxit,” tensions between the Princess of Wales and Meghan Markle were apparent—so much so that Prince William appeared to act as his wife’s “human shield” during a public engagement in 2018.
Body language specialist Judi James, speaking to Express UK, reflected on the moment with the benefit of hindsight. “Superficially, and with the benefit of hindsight, now that we know about the tricky relationship between Meghan and Kate, this looks very much like a devoted and protective husband strategically and very pointedly stepping between his wife and her nemesis in the form of a human shield,” she explained.
While the specific event was not detailed, the engagement reportedly involved both the Sussexes and the then-Cambridges. James described the atmosphere as “tense and awkward,” noting, “William’s body language shows he is clearly aware that Harry and Meghan have honed into position behind him and he immediately ducks his head to move to stand next to his wife, even sucking his lips inward in what is often a signal of regret.”
She also pointed out “a spatial gap between William and Meghan that doesn’t really show at this angle.” According to James, royal protocol at such events creates a “royal queue” when greeting hosts, with gaps that can form if a royal—such as Kate—lingers in conversation.
Meghan, being new to the royal family at the time, had previously been met with friendly and welcoming gestures from William. James suggested that his movement might have been a polite adjustment. “It is rude to keep your back to the newcomer, as it is a sign of rejection.
So, we often shuffle to ensure we encompass the new arrival,” she said. While Meghan would not have been permitted to join William and Kate due to the strict royal pecking order, “it would be completely conceivable for a very polite William to move in to place to ensure his back is not turned against her.”
Ultimately, James concluded that William’s action could have been both an act of courtesy and a deliberate buffer between the two women if he sensed friction.
Separately, reports have suggested that Prince William harbored early reservations about Meghan’s intentions toward Prince Harry. According to Lady Elizabeth Anson, a close confidant of the late Queen Elizabeth II, the monarch herself shared apprehensions.
Royal journalist Phil Dampier told Page Six, quoting Anson’s view: “She saw [marriage to Harry] as a stepping stone… to new fame and fortune. And I think that’s what initially Prince William was concerned about.” Dampier added, “To have this confirmed by somebody so close to the Queen is really dynamite.”