Meghan Markle and Prince Harry encountered a seemingly tense moment as they arrived at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City, New York, for the Time100 Summit on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. Upon exiting their vehicle, Prince Harry appeared to reach for Meghan’s hand, but she was already focused on greeting a welcoming woman.
Prince Harry stood briefly by himself, adjusting his attire as he observed Meghan embracing her acquaintance. Shortly thereafter, he joined Meghan at the building entrance, with Meghan pausing to let him catch up before they proceeded inside together.
Body language expert Judi James analyzed the couple’s interaction, suggesting that Harry appeared to adopt a “spare” role during the appearance, exhibiting “awkward-looking body language poses while a more assured Meghan takes the starring role.”
The term “spare” is notably relevant for Harry, who was often referred to in this way due to his position as Prince William’s younger brother, a label he adopted for the title of his 2023 memoir.
According to James, Meghan appeared to lead during their arrival. “By the time they’re arriving for the greetings it seems to be Meghan very much in the lead while Harry lurks behind,” she noted.
James highlighted Meghan’s use of specific non-verbal cues to establish her presence at the event. She pointed out that Meghan’s arms were bent at a 45-degree angle, with her hands adopting a “celebrity wilt,” a term James uses to describe hands dangling from bent wrists. James indicated this gesture suggests a form of specialness and reflects status power, as though Meghan doesn’t need her hands because she has people to open doors and guide her.
The expert noted that Meghan actively engaged with cameras and initiated warm greetings while Harry waited, a dynamic James described as “previously unthinkable during his time in the royal family.” Harry’s jacket hung open, and his expression appeared “more intense and less radiant than his wife’s.”
The Sussexes arrived at the event in style, escorted by a four-car motorcade that included another SUV and two unmarked police vehicles. Several security personnel accompanied the couple as they entered.
For the occasion, Harry wore a dark suit, while Meghan, who founded the lifestyle brand “As Ever,” was dressed in a tan blazer with matching pants, complemented by a white top and heels.
While on stage at the Time100 Summit, Meghan spoke about her current happiness. “To have a partner and a husband who is so supportive and have healthy kids who are so joyful,” she said. “I never would have imagined at this point I would feel so happy and grateful, and I really do.”
The couple are parents to two children: son Prince Archie, five, and daughter Princess Lilibet, three. During her appearance, Meghan shared a personal detail, mentioning she hoped to return to their Montecito, California, home before Archie loses his first baby tooth. “I just hope I’m back home in time for it!” she exclaimed.
According to reporting by Elle, this particular milestone was significant enough for Meghan that the couple chose to skip the Time100 Gala the following night, as Meghan needed to return to California for this event in her son’s life.
Despite the seemingly awkward arrival, other body language experts have different interpretations of the couple’s dynamic. Darren Stanton suggested that Harry was simply in a supportive role, allowing Meghan to be the focal point at the event.
The Sussexes have been involved in various projects since relocating to the United States. Meghan has launched a Netflix show, a new podcast, and her lifestyle brand “As Ever.” During the summit, she discussed giving herself “space and grace to make mistakes” as she manages these ventures.
The couple has lived in their $14 million Montecito mansion since 2020, following their decision to step back from royal duties. They remain estranged from Harry’s family, with ongoing reports of tensions between the Sussexes and other royal family members.
In addition to their participation at the Time100 Summit, the couple also introduced the #NoChildLostToSocialMedia memorial during their visit to New York, highlighting their commitment to creating safer online environments for children.
The couple’s public appearances continue to draw significant attention from media and royal watchers, with their interactions and body language frequently analyzed for insights into their relationship and adaptation to life outside the royal family structure.
