Meghan Markle took the spotlight at the Time 100 Summit in New York City, with Prince Harry stepping into the background—a dynamic that a body language expert suggests highlights his continued role as the “spare.”
According to expert Judi James, Harry appeared to direct attention toward Meghan, who arrived in a sharp Ralph Lauren suit, while he took on the role of supportive spouse.
As Meghan discussed topics ranging from parenting to her latest ventures, Harry was seen guiding her out of the car and greeting her after her stage appearance.
While some saw Harry’s actions as simply affectionate, James noted an underlying discomfort. Speaking to DailyMail.com, she explained, “Whether Harry’s leading or lurking here, he appears to be in the role of ‘spare,’ displaying some awkward-looking body language poses while a more assured Meghan takes the starring role.”
She described how, during their arrival, Meghan confidently led the way while Harry followed. Meghan’s distinctive “celebrity wilt” hand gesture—wrists bent, fingers relaxed—was noted as a symbol of status, often referred to as the “broken wing” pose, which conveys a sense of protected fragility.
“Meghan works the cameras and initiates gracious-looking hugs,” James added. “Meanwhile, Harry’s expression is intense, and his open jacket adds to his unpolished appearance.”
Later, as they left the venue via a side door with security, Harry again trailed behind, seemingly emphasizing Meghan’s prominence.
“His chest is forward, but his bent knees and turned glance make him appear awkward,” James said. “It’s Meghan who remains the center of attention, prompting him to check her face and reach out for a hand clasp—reaffirming the romantic image.”
Meghan wore a £1,970 Ralph Lauren silk-linen blazer with matching £1,785 trousers and £650 Manolo Blahnik suede heels. Her jewelry included more than £35,000 worth of accessories, featuring a £7,050 Cartier bangle, £6,950 Tabayer earrings, and Princess Diana’s £21,400 Cartier Tank Française watch.
Onstage, Meghan shared that her son Archie has his first loose tooth, mirroring a recent birthday photo of his cousin Prince Louis, who was seen with missing front teeth.
Reflecting on her hectic schedule—including launching her Netflix series, podcast, and lifestyle brand As Ever—Meghan emphasized how motherhood brings everything into perspective.
“You give yourself the space and grace to make mistakes… and when you see it all come to life, it all matters,” she said. “Parenthood gives you the most illuminating perspective.”
When asked how she maintains focus despite public scrutiny, Meghan responded, “I don’t go online.” She said setting boundaries is key for her mental health and to serve as a role model for her children.
“I want my son to grow up with confidence and to uplift the women around him,” she added.
Looking ahead, Meghan expressed her commitment to her family while also continuing to support female entrepreneurs.
Her new podcast, Confessions of a Female Founder, is part of that mission. She also addressed the rebranding of her lifestyle venture—formerly called American Riviera Orchard—saying, “I didn’t love that so much,” calling it a “word salad.”
She added that the quiet period before launching As Ever gave her much-needed space, especially while navigating trademark challenges. Her recent podcast featured her hair colorist and friend, Kadi Lee, co-founder of Highbrow Hippie, a brand Meghan has invested in.
