Pop Star Reveals Reason for Breaking Royal Protocol to Embrace Kate Middleton

Earlier this month, Jessie J experienced a heartfelt moment with Kate Middleton at the Royal Variety Performance on November 19. The encounter carried deep significance, as both the singer and the Princess of Wales have recently battled cancer.

In an interview with Good Morning America, Jessie J, whose real name is Jessica Cornish, reflected on the meeting. When asked if Princess Kate spoke to her as a fellow mother, Jessie J recalled, She simply said, Thank you, I know youve gone through a difficult time. I responded, I know you have as well. I wanted to acknowledge that, mother to mother, cancer survivor to cancer survivor. I see you, I feel you. May I give you a hug? She said, Of course.

Although physical contact with royals is generally considered a breach of protocol, the singer emphasized that she was just grateful that she received it in the way it was intended.

Jessie J also shared her perspective in the U.K.s This Morning show, explaining that she was advised not to hug Kate, but I just saw a mother who had publicly faced cancer, and I wanted to embrace her. It was as simple as that. I didnt see her as the Princess of Wales in that moment; I saw her as a human being, a mother, someone who has endured the same struggle.

Kate Middleton had publicly revealed her cancer diagnosis in March 2024, though the specific type was not disclosed. By September, she completed chemotherapy and announced her cancer was in remission a few months later. Jessie J revealed her own breast cancer diagnosis in June and briefly stepped away for surgery.

The touching encounter between the singer and the Princess of Wales highlighted a shared human experience beyond titles, showcasing compassion and understanding between two women navigating life after cancer.

Author: Natalie Monroe