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.
-
The Queen of Norway Was Air Lifted to Oslo Hospital After "Breathing Difficulties"
The Norwegian royal has been forced to cancel her duties this week.
By Kristin Contino
-
Two Weeks Into Dog Parenthood, Sydney Sweeney's Dressing the Part
Denim shorts on deck.
By Kelsey Stiegman
-
I Just Want to Smell Like I’m Drinking Bubbly on a Yacht This Summer
The best perfumes of the season, according to our Beauty Director.
By Hannah Baxter
-
Meghan Markle's Boxed Hair Dye Disaster During the Pandemic Left Her Looking "Elvira-Esque"
"I thought, ‘I'm gonna look just like she does on the box.'"
By Kristin Contino
-
Meghan Markle's White Easter Shirt Dress Is the Ultimate Spring Staple
The Duchess of Sussex wore a breezy button-down style to celebrate the holiday.
By Kristin Contino
-
The "Nerve-Racking" Meeting King Charles's Cousin Had With Princess Diana
"I could have been a complete idiot."
By Amy Mackelden
-
How Princess Eugenie's Easter Sunday Outfit Takes Style Tips From Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton
From her nude heels to her bodycon dress.
By Amy Mackelden
-
Prince Harry Requested "Certain Protection" After Receiving a Shocking Threat Against His Life
Britain's Home Office released new details about a terrorist threat that targeted the Duke of Sussex.
By Kristin Contino
-
Princess Diana's Close Friend Reveals What She Likely Would Have Thought About Meghan Markle
Richard Kay shared insights on the late royal and what her relationship with Prince Harry's wife could've been like.
By Kristin Contino
-
This Royal Couple Has the Most Pinned Celebrity Wedding of All Time—And a Surprising Royal Wedding Didn't Even Make The List
A new study found this ceremony gave Pinterest users the most inspiration.
By Kristin Contino
-
Royal Sources Give Update on "Distant" Relationship With Prince Harry and King Charles
Insiders close to the Duke of Sussex have revealed whether there is a chance at reconciliation in the near future.
By Kristin Contino