A poignant moment of mutual understanding and support unfolded at this week's Royal Variety Show, as the Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, and singer Jessie J shared a heartfelt hug, bonded by their personal journeys with cancer.
A Moment of Connection
The touching encounter occurred as the Prince and Princess of Wales greeted performers backstage at the prestigious event. Jessie J, 37, who had performed her song 'I'll Never Know Why' on Tuesday, 19 November, chatted with the future Queen, who was radiant in a green velvet gown, while the singer wore an all-black ensemble.
Towards the end of their conversation, the pair embraced in a hug that spoke volumes. According to reports, this genuine display of affection was prompted by their shared experiences of battling cancer in the public eye.
Shared Journeys of Resilience
Both women have faced significant health challenges recently. Jessie J was diagnosed with breast cancer earlier this year and underwent a mastectomy in June. Her recovery path required a second operation, forcing her to postpone her autumn tour.
Similarly, Kate Middleton announced her own cancer diagnosis in March 2024 and underwent a course of preventative chemotherapy. While she has not disclosed the specific type of cancer, she shared the welcome news in January that she was in remission, stating it was a "relief" and that she remained "focused on recovery."
This appearance at the Royal Variety Show marked a significant milestone, being the first show the Princess has attended since beginning her treatment.
Mental Health and Mutual Support
Explaining the emotional hug, Jessie J, whose real name is Jessica Cornish, revealed the simple, powerful sentiment behind it: "Mum to mum, who has just recently gone through cancer, I just wanted to give her a hug." She added that they both acknowledged how difficult the experience is, particularly under the scrutiny of the public.
The conversation extended to mental wellbeing, with the singer also speaking to Prince William. They discussed mental health, and the Prince of Wales encouraged her to get involved with the charitable work of The Royal Foundation, which runs the long-standing Heads Together campaign to promote open conversations about mental health.
This topic is also close to Jessie J's heart, as she revealed last year that she had been diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). She has spoken openly about how understanding her diagnosis helped her to love herself more.
The encounter between the future queen and the pop star served as a powerful public reminder of the strength found in shared experience and the importance of support for both physical and mental health.
