Body Language Experts Weigh In on Markle and Prince Harry’s Interactions During Their Tour

Kicking off their tour, Markle and Prince Harry enjoyed a traditional Colombian snack of pandebono—a cheesy bread treat—along with freshly brewed coffee at Vice President Márquez’s residence.

According to body language expert Judi James, Prince Harry’s demeanor upon arrival indicated a conscious effort to downplay his royal status. James noted that the Duke appeared to purposefully take a backseat during their interactions, allowing his wife to shine.

“Harry’s body language on their arrival and as they greet their host suggests some status-lowering, as though he is keen to avoid pulling royal rank here,” James explained. She emphasized that Prince Harry’s reserved expressions and non-performative behavior pointed to his intention to let Markle take the spotlight.

James further observed how the Duchess’s confident and poised body language contrasted with her husband’s more subdued approach. While Markle greeted the vice president with warmth and familiarity, Prince Harry’s introduction was more reserved.

“Meghan greets the host warmly, using non-verbal signals that would normally imply a long, fond friendship,” James remarked.

Markle’s extended hold on the handshake and her fond smile gave the impression that she was delighted to facilitate the introduction between Prince Harry and Márquez, almost as if she was playing the role of the connector.

On the other hand, Prince Harry responded with a respectful bow, signaling deference as he engaged in a two-handed handshake with Márquez. The couple’s public interactions later in the day provided further insight into their dynamic.

Stepping out to greet fans, Markle adopted what James described as a “Hey, I’m here!” pose, exuding confidence and star power. Her broad, symmetrical smile and composed stance reflected her comfort in the limelight.

According to James, Markle’s demeanor suggested she was fully embracing her role as a public figure. Harry’s body language, on the other hand, hinted at a disconnect between his emotions and his wife’s.

Later, the Sussexes attended a performance at the Delia Zapata National Centre for the Arts, where Markle’s vibrant pink dress by Colombian designer Johanna Ortiz symbolized her connection to the local culture.

The couple sat with Vice President Márquez as they enjoyed the show. The Duchess of Sussex was seen chatting animatedly with Vice President Márquez, pointing out details in the dancers’ costumes, before shaking hands with the performers at the end of the showcase.

The couple also clapped and engaged with other guests. However, Prince Harry’s discomfort was apparent to those closely observing. James noted that, despite his royal background, he seemed less at ease than his wife.

“At times, he was actively laughing and chatting using animated gesticulation, but there were also ‘flash’ moments when his smile dropped and his facial expression looked almost dour in comparison to his wife’s,” James noted.

The expert added that Prince Harry’s constant fidgeting and shuffling suggested a level of anxiety, starkly different from Markle’s unwavering poise and elegance.

Former BBC Royal Correspondent Michael Cole also offered his analysis, further highlighting how Markle’s confident demeanor contrasted with Prince Harry’s hesitant posture.

Speaking to GB News, Cole commented, “If you look at Meghan, she’s there, she comes out, she’s got the suit, she’s got the smile, she is on point, and she’s doing everything that she could have done had she stayed within the bosom of the Royal Family, and doing it rather well.”

In contrast, Cole noted that Prince Harry’s body language reflected a sense of distance and hesitation. While he managed to smile at times, it was evident that Markle was the more enthusiastic participant.

Cole’s observations reinforced the idea that Markle appeared to be leading the way during their public appearances. “She seems to be running the show,” Cole added, referencing the moment when the Duchess instructed the Duke to hold her hand.

As their tour continued, these contrasting body language cues became a recurring theme, sparking ongoing discussions about the evolving dynamics between Meghan Markle and Prince Harry during their international engagements.

Despite the focus on their body language and actions, Cole praised the couple for wanting to do something positive. He said, “Obviously they want to do good. There’s an awful lot of good that needs doing in the world, and if they can do some, jolly good for them.”

The spotlight on their behavior underscores how every gesture and exchange between the couple continues to fuel public fascination and discussion.