NewsBite

Updated

Lip readers reveal what Princess Catherine said to Sophie Wessex on royal balcony at Cenotaph

Princess Catherine has thrilled royal fans with an appearance that had lip readers speculating on a chat that apparently veered from the sombre to the silly. See the video.

Princess Catherine watches Remembrance Day with royal confidant

Princess Catherine has thrilled royal fans in one of her first major engagements since returning to public life, with an appearance that had lip readers speculating on a chat that apparently veered from the sombre to the silly.

Standing on a balcony overlooking the Remembrance Sunday service at the Cenotaph in central London, the much-loved royal drew focus as she chatted with Sophie Wessex, the wife of Prince Edward.

The Princess of Wales chats with Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh on the balcony during the National Service of Remembrance at The Cenotaph. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images
The Princess of Wales chats with Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh on the balcony during the National Service of Remembrance at The Cenotaph. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

According to lip readers, the pair’s exchange was at times serious as they appeared to discuss the wellbeing of a female member of the royal family, but also amusing, with Prince William’s much-talked about new beard getting a mention.

Lip reader Kayleigh Harris said at one point Princess Catherine turned to Sophie and said: “She will be supported in this.”

Sophie replied: “Yes, and especially …”

Although it is unclear who they were speaking about, Queen Camilla was absent from the weekend’s events as she was recovering from a chest infection.

During their appearance, Sophie was seen affectionately placing a comforting hand on Catherine’s back as they turned to head inside at the conclusion of the service.

The Duchess of Edinburgh places her hand on Princess Catherine’s back as they depart the balcony after the National Service of Remembrance. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images
The Duchess of Edinburgh places her hand on Princess Catherine’s back as they depart the balcony after the National Service of Remembrance. Picture: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

Sophie has been a source of strength to the family during their recent cancer battles, often stepping in for both Princess Catherine and King Charles when their doctors insisted they rest.

In a light moment that divided The Sun’s lip readers over what actually transpired, Sophie also appeared to comment on Prince William’s new beard.

According to lip reader Nicola Hickling, Sophie asked Catherine “what, you like a beard?” to which the Princess of Wales replied “I find it quite rousing”.

Catherine, Princess of Wales smiles as she stands from the balcony during the National Service of Remembrance at The Cenotaph. Picture: Getty Images.
Catherine, Princess of Wales smiles as she stands from the balcony during the National Service of Remembrance at The Cenotaph. Picture: Getty Images.
Crowds rejoiced in seeing the Princess again. Picture: Getty Images
Crowds rejoiced in seeing the Princess again. Picture: Getty Images

However, lip reader Kayleigh Harris said the Princess actually described Prince William’s beard as “never quite rounded”, rather than rousing.

The appearance came just a day after Princess Catherine attended Royal Albert Hall in London for the Festival of Remembrance ceremony.

It is the first time this year she has performed public duties two days in a row, with royal watchers taking it as a sign her health is on the mend following her cancer scare.

The 42 year old wore a striking black military style jacket by Catherine Walker & Co, a favourite designer of the late Princess Diana, adorned with three red poppies.

While poppies are traditionally worn to commemorate Remembrance Day, it is unusual to see three.

However, Princess Catherine has always worn the trio of blooms to honour her great grandmother’s three brothers, who all died in the First World War.

Prince William, Prince of Wales stands tall during the National Service of Remembrance at The Cenotaph in London. Picture: Getty Images.
Prince William, Prince of Wales stands tall during the National Service of Remembrance at The Cenotaph in London. Picture: Getty Images.
Prince William, Prince and King Charles were in step. Picture: Getty Images.
Prince William, Prince and King Charles were in step. Picture: Getty Images.

The Princess of Wales’ earrings were also of special significance as they previously belonged to the late Queen Elizabeth II – having been gifted to her by the ruler of Bahrain in 1947 – and were once worn by Diana.

The late monarch wore them for her iconic 1952 portrait.

Meanwhile, Diana donned the earrings for a banquet in 1982.

Queen Elizabeth II of England was gifted the exquisite earrings.
Queen Elizabeth II of England was gifted the exquisite earrings.
Princess Diana also wore them to Hampton Court Palace in 1982. Picture: PA Images/AAP
Princess Diana also wore them to Hampton Court Palace in 1982. Picture: PA Images/AAP

Princess Catherine has previously worn the earrings to Remembrance Sunday services in 2016 and 2019, and to the funeral of Prince Phillip in 2021.

Princess Catherine has not missed a Remembrance Sunday since joining the royal family 13 years ago.

King Charles laid his wreath first.

King Charles wrote a touching note on his wreath. Picture: Getty Images.
King Charles wrote a touching note on his wreath. Picture: Getty Images.

The wreath included a heartfelt message handwritten by the monarch: “In grateful remembrance of your service and sacrifice.”

The King wore his Admiral of the Fleet Royal Navy uniform complete with a greatcoat, poppy and sword.

Prince William was wearing his Royal Air Force uniform where holds the rank of Wing Commander.

It is hoped we will see more of the Princess in 2025. Picture: Getty Images.
It is hoped we will see more of the Princess in 2025. Picture: Getty Images.
Catherine, Princess of Wales, attends the Remembrance Sunday ceremony at the Cenotaph on Whitehall in central London on November 10, 2024, the anniversary of the end of the First World War. Picture: AFP
Catherine, Princess of Wales, attends the Remembrance Sunday ceremony at the Cenotaph on Whitehall in central London on November 10, 2024, the anniversary of the end of the First World War. Picture: AFP

The commemoration included a two minute silence in honour of all who have made the ultimate sacrifice and a brief service lead by the Bishop of London.

The bell of Westminster tolled solemnly and the strains of God Save the King rang out.

The service was also attended by Prince Edward, Princess Anne, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, Prince Richard, the Duke of Gloucester, Birgitte the Duchess of Gloucester and the Duke of Kent.

Originally published as Lip readers reveal what Princess Catherine said to Sophie Wessex on royal balcony at Cenotaph

Add your comment to this story

To join the conversation, please Don't have an account? Register

Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout

Original URL: https://www.themercury.com.au/entertainment/celebrity-life/royals/princess-catherine-pays-tribute-on-remembrance-sunday-wearing-queens-earrings/news-story/eadcf9eb66f1734e976daa78a1e30400