Kate Middleton was seen warmly embracing members of the public during a garden party at Buckingham Palace, subtly challenging a past claim made by Meghan Markle.

The Princess of Wales attended Tuesday’s event alongside Prince William and other royals. While her bright yellow dress captured attention, it was Kate’s heartfelt hugs that left a lasting impression—seemingly in contrast to Meghan’s earlier remarks suggesting the royals were uncomfortable with physical affection.

In the 2022 Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan, the Duchess of Sussex described her first meeting with Kate and William, implying that the couple had difficulty with casual displays of warmth.

Meghan recalled, “When Will and Kate came over and I was meeting her (Kate) for the first time I remember, I was in ripped jeans, I was barefoot.”

She continued, “Like, I was a hugger, I have always been a hugger. I didn’t realize that is really jarring for a lot of Brits.”

She added, “I started to understand that the formality on the outside carried through on the inside.”

However, Kate’s affectionate interactions at the garden party told a different story. Her ease in offering hugs to guests suggested a more relaxed and emotionally open side to royal life, seemingly at odds with Meghan’s past experiences.

Kate has often been recognized for her warmth during royal engagements, frequently smiling, laughing, and offering heartfelt embraces. Her approachable demeanor has earned praise from the public. Following a recent image of Kate hugging Holocaust survivor Steven Frank, one admirer dubbed her “the Princess of hugs.”

Another royal fan commented, “And who said the royals didn’t hug! This is pure joy at seeing someone..not something staged for the cameras.”

A third added, “How lovely to see this. He must be so happy to have his big hug from Catherine.”

Kate’s reputation for showing affection has become a hallmark of her public appearances, reinforcing her image as a compassionate and genuine figure within the royal family.