Prince William and Catherine Princess of Wales Step Out at BAFTAs as Royal Tensions Simmer Behind Palace Doors

Prince William and Catherine Princess of Wales made a public appearance at the BAFTA Film Awards in London on Sunday evening. The couple walked the red carpet at the Royal Festival Hall but did not stop to speak with reporters before heading inside.

William wore a classic black tuxedo. Catherine chose a long pink gown. Their attendance had not been confirmed in advance. According to event organizers, there was no clear signal ahead of time about whether the Prince of Wales, who has served as president of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts since 2010, would attend this year’s ceremony.

Prince William and Princess Kate of Wales arriving at the #BAFTA Film Awards pic.twitter.com/IBrGjqVKXK

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The couple missed the awards last year. In 2024, William attended alone while Catherine was recovering from abdominal surgery. It was later shared that her condition was cancer-related. She was last seen at the ceremony in 2023 before this year’s return.

Their appearance comes during a difficult time for the royal family. William’s uncle, Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, was arrested last week on suspicion of misconduct in public office. If convicted, he could face a life sentence. The arrest has created headlines across the UK.

Despite the situation, senior royals continued with scheduled public events. King Charles III attended London Fashion Week, while Princess Anne visited a prison in Leeds. Observers say this shows the family is trying to maintain routine duties.

There had also been questions about whether the BAFTAs ceremony would include jokes about the scandal. In 2020, host Rebel Wilson made light remarks about royal controversies while William and Catherine sat in the front row. This year’s host is Alan Cumming, who previously returned his royal honor in 2023. He said at the time his decision was influenced by the Queen’s death and “ensuing conversations about the role of monarchy.” He is not expected to address the current issue during the show.

Several major stars attended the ceremony, including Leonardo DiCaprio, Kate Hudson, and Chloe Zhao.

William’s continued presence at the BAFTAs reflects his long-standing role with the academy. Even with the challenges facing the royal family, the couple’s appearance signaled that official duties are moving forward as planned.

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