Meghan Markle Is a Reassuring Presence for Prince Harry, Body Language Expert Says
He seemed very nervous ahead of his U.N. speech.


Last week, Prince Harry gave a speech at the United Nations to mark Nelson Mandela Day.
Ahead of the speech, he and wife Meghan Markle were filmed sitting in the audience, with the duchess offering a coughing woman some water at one point.
In a clip shared on Twitter, it also seemed clear that the duke was very nervous, and that Markle was offering him comfort and support. It's really sweet to watch.
She alternates between holding his hand in hers, holding it in her lap, and placing a reassuring hand on his arm.
"Meghan feels protective of Harry and this was noticeable as they sat together before he delivered his speech," body language expert Darren Stanton tells Marie Claire on behalf of Slingo.
"It was clear to see Harry was nervous, with Meghan making sure to smile as the pair were in the spotlight, yet she is visibly conscious of how Harry is feeling. We know this as her face isn't fully engaged, suggesting she is distracted."
Though Harry seemed very worried, the presence of his wife acted as an anchor for him.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
"The only time we see Harry smile, however, is when he looks at Meghan for reassurance," Stanton continues.
"Her face lights up as she looks back at Harry, before she takes his hand. The pair leaning in towards each other is a reflection of their deep connection and Meghan holding Harry's hand and rubbing his forearm is almost maternal.
"Harry, meanwhile, appears restless and is unable to sit still—his mind preoccupied with his speech no doubt—prompting Meghan to keep him relaxed and show she is there to support him."
The Sussexes clearly have a very loving relationship, which they can turn to in times of trouble—of which there are, sadly, many.
Iris Goldsztajn is a London-based journalist, editor and author. She is the morning editor at Marie Claire, and her work has appeared in the likes of British Vogue, InStyle, Cosmopolitan, Refinery29 and SELF. Iris writes about everything from celebrity news and relationship advice to the pitfalls of diet culture and the joys of exercise. She has many opinions on Harry Styles, and can typically be found eating her body weight in cheap chocolate.
-
Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber Twin in Athleisure Outfits
The models effortlessly deliver an athleisure masterclass in matching leggings.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why Duchess Sophie Allegedly Feels "Snubbed" by King Charles
"There should be an opportunity for Sophie to be allowed to do more," a royal expert claimed.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Dua Lipa Swaps Her Valentino Dress for a Marni Mini Skirt
The singer accessorized her outfits with more than $120,000 of jewelry.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince Harry Was Allegedly Crushed When Prince William Received "Special Treatment" as a Child, Says Royal Butler
"Poor Harry's face across the table," Princess Diana's former butler recalled.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Prince Harry Wasn't Informed About King Charles's Hospitalization as Palace Didn't Want to "Cause Unnecessary Alarm"
"It looks like the duke only found out about his father's latest health update through the media."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Meghan Markle and Her Makeup Artist Confirmed All Her Royal Wedding Beauty Products
And yes, you can shop them all here.
By Kayleigh Roberts Published
-
Why Prince Harry Is So "Torn Apart" Over Resigning From His Charity
The Duke of Sussex co-founded Sentebale in honor of his mother in 2006.
By Lia Beck Published
-
Meghan Markle and Gwyneth Paltrow Open Up About Their "Rift" Over Pie
Expect a Goop x As Ever collab in three… two..
By Lia Beck Published
-
Meghan Markle Confirms Skinny Jeans Are Back by Finally Revealing Her Favorite Frame Denim
It's never been easier to dress like a duchess.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
New Prince Archie Photo Proves He Takes After Dad Prince Harry in Two Very Important Ways
Father and son have much more in common than their vibrant red hair.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Meghan Markle Shared a Rare Video Filmed by Prince Harry on Instagram
And she used her nickname for him in the shoutout she wrote in the video's caption.
By Kayleigh Roberts Published