Meghan Markle and Prince Harry experienced a notable moment upon their arrival at Jazz at Lincoln Center in New York City for the Time100 Summit on Wednesday, April 23, 2025. As they exited their vehicle, Prince Harry appeared to reach for Meghan’s hand, but she was already engaged in greeting a woman waiting to receive them.
Harry stood briefly, adjusting his attire while observing Meghan embrace her acquaintance. He then proceeded to follow Meghan towards the building entrance, catching up to her before they entered together.
Body language expert Judi James analyzed the interaction and noted that Harry seemed to adopt the “spare” role during the event, exhibiting “awkward-looking body language poses while a more assured Meghan takes the starring role.”
The term “spare” is significant for Harry, having been associated with it as Prince William’s younger brother. He utilized the term for his 2023 memoir title.
James observed that 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,” James explained.
The expert highlighted Meghan’s use of specific non-verbal cues to assert her presence. Her arms were bent at a 45-degree angle, with hands in what James described as a “celebrity wilt,” suggesting status and implying that she doesn’t need her hands as people open doors for her.
According to the expert, Meghan engaged with cameras and initiated warm greetings while Harry waited, something James noted would have been “unthinkable during his time in the royal family.” Harry’s jacket was open, and his expression seemed “more intense and less radiant than his wife’s.”
The Sussexes arrived at the event with a four-car motorcade, including another SUV and two unmarked police cars, with security guards accompanying them.
For the occasion, Harry wore a dark suit while Meghan, founder of the “As Ever” lifestyle brand, opted for a tan blazer and matching pants, paired with a white top and heels.
When Meghan spoke at the Time100 Summit, she expressed her 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 has two children: Prince Archie, five, and Princess Lilibet, three. Meghan shared that she hoped to return home to Montecito in time for Archie losing his first baby tooth. “I just hope I’m back home in time for it!” she said.
According to reporting by Elle, this milestone was important enough for Meghan that they skipped the Time100 Gala the following night, so she could return to California in time.
Despite the initial moment upon arrival, other experts offered varied interpretations of the couple’s interaction. Expert Darren Stanton suggested Harry was in a supportive role, allowing Meghan to take the spotlight.
The Sussexes have been active with numerous projects since moving to the United States. Meghan launched a Netflix show, a podcast, and her “As Ever” brand. During the summit, she discussed giving herself “space and grace to make mistakes” as she manages these endeavors.
Living in their $14 million Montecito mansion since 2020, they remain distanced from Harry’s family, with reports of ongoing tensions with other royals.
In addition to the Time100 Summit, the couple also unveiled the #NoChildLostToSocialMedia memorial during their New York visit, showing their commitment to safer online spaces for children.
Their public appearances continue to draw significant attention, with media and royal observers frequently analyzing their interactions and body language for insights into their relationship and adaptation to life outside the royal framework.
