Princess Kate and Prince William Meet Paddington Bear at After Cancer Recovery

The Princess of Wales revealed that Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis would be “very sad” to miss her and Prince William’s special meet-and-greet with Paddington Bear at this year’s Royal Variety Performance. The royal couple joined leading entertainers at the Royal Albert Hall for the annual charity event, where Britain’s beloved, sandwich-loving bear was among the stars.

William and Kate Share Sweet Moment With Paddington

Prince William and Princess Catherine, both 43, were delighted to meet Paddington, who appeared as part of a performance from Paddington The Musical. William even complimented the bear’s iconic marmalade sandwich, calling it “very yummy” and praising his musical performance.

Kate Says Her Children Will Be ‘Very Sad’ to Miss Paddington

Before entering the venue, the Princess spoke with nine-year-old twins Emelie and Olivia Edwards, who presented her with a bouquet of winter-themed flowers. Catherine lovingly told them that her children—George, Charlotte, and Louis—would be jealous of her encounter with Paddington.

“My kiddies will be very sad,” she said with a smile, placing a finger to her lips. “We are going to have to keep it a big secret.”

A Glamorous Night at the Royal Albert Hall

Despite cold sleet in London, crowds gathered outside the Royal Albert Hall to welcome the Prince and Princess of Wales. Catherine stunned in a green velvet evening gown, believed to be from luxury German fashion house Talbot Runhof, paired with the Greville Chandelier Earrings, crafted by Cartier and once worn by the late Queen Elizabeth II. William looked sharp in classic black tie.

The couple were greeted by senior officials from the Royal Variety Charity before taking their seats in the Royal Box, where state trumpeters and Welsh soprano Katherine Jenkins opened the evening with the national anthem.

Powerful Performances and Emotional Moments

This year’s Royal Variety Performance featured an array of talent, including:

• Jessie J
• Matt Lucas
• Katherine Jenkins
• Cast members of Les Misérables celebrating the show’s 40th anniversary
• Britain’s Got Talent 2024 winner, magician Henry Moulding

Backstage, Jessie J shared an emotional hug with Princess Kate as they discussed their personal cancer journeys. Jessie J praised the Princess for speaking publicly about her own diagnosis, while Catherine described the singer’s performance—dedicated to her late bodyguard—as “moving.”

Henry Moulding also made headlines during the show with a magic trick involving King Charles III, who celebrated 50 years since becoming a member of the Magic Circle.

Paddington Continues to Be a Royal Favorite

Paddington, who became a symbol of national affection after his unforgettable Platinum Jubilee sketch with Queen Elizabeth II, remains closely associated with the Royal Family. Following the Queen’s passing, hundreds of Paddington toys and marmalade sandwiches were left in tribute outside Buckingham Palace.

Supporting the Entertainment Industry

A special video from the Royal Variety Charity highlighted ongoing challenges in the entertainment sector, including financial uncertainty, long hours, and the high rate of mental-health struggles among performers.