Prince William Demonstrates Affection to Kate Middleton with Public Display of Affection During German State Visit

During Germany's state visit, Prince William displayed a tender moment with Kate Middleton. The Prince of Wales gently touched his wifes back, a gesture captured by cameras as they explored a special exhibit of German artifacts from the Royal Collection in Windsor Castles Green Drawing Room.

Footage shared on X showed William placing his hand on Kate's back while they conversed with an attendee, highlighting another instance of public affection between the royal couple. Their tactile connection has been more noticeable following Kate Middletons announcement of cancer treatment in March 2024 and her subsequent remission declared in January 2025.

Royal commentator Ingrid Seward noted that the couple is comfortable showing affection in public. They are happy for people to see them be touchy-feely. Theyre in a different phase of their life now. William is very protective and proud of her for overcoming her illness and continuing with her life, she said.

Kate and William viewed German-themed exhibits in the Green Drawing Room during German President Frank-Walter Steinmeiers state visit to the U.K. on December 3, 2025. While previous generations of royals, such as Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, avoided public displays of affection, modern royals decide for themselves how and when to show closeness.

Etiquette expert Myka Meier explained, Senior members of the royal family would likely not be told how to interact or when they can or cannot show PDA. They are trusted to use their judgment based on the events formality.

The gentle touch on Kates back during the tour followed other recent romantic gestures. On November 19, William kissed Kates hand before stepping out of their car to attend the Royal Variety Performance in London. Video footage showed William adjusting his bowtie and lightly kissing Kates hand, a sweet display of chivalry.

That evening included more affectionate moments: Kate shared a loving look with her husband on the red carpet, and William placed his hand on her back as they entered the Royal Albert Hall. This event marked the couples return to the red carpet after two years, following Kates reduced public duties during her treatment.

Reflecting on the past year, Prince William revealed in an October interview on The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy that 2024 was particularly challenging. Id say 2024 was the hardest year that Ive ever had, balancing protecting the children, supporting Catherine, and caring for my father while continuing my duties, he said.

In February 2024, Buckingham Palace confirmed King Charles cancer diagnosis, with treatment ongoing into 2025. William emphasized the importance of family support during this period: Its crucial my family feels protected and has the space to process everything that happened last year, while still carrying out our responsibilities.

Author: Caleb Jennings