In March 2025, members of the royal family gathered at Westminster Abbey to commemorate Commonwealth Day.

This annual occasion drew considerable attention, particularly because of the anticipated full return of Princess Catherine to official duties. At 43, the Princess of Wales had announced that she was in remission after completing chemotherapy in 2024.

Senior royals, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, were present for the significant event, signaling a moment of unity and recovery for the monarchy.

King Charles Emphasizes Unity and Global Cooperation

The day began with a church service, where King Charles III delivered a hopeful message regarding the strength and importance of the Commonwealth, an alliance of 56 nations working together across continents.

Reflecting on the organization’s purpose, the king stated:

“In these uncertain times, where it is all too easy to believe that our differences are problems instead of a source of strength and an opportunity for learning, the Commonwealth’s remarkable collection of nations and peoples come together in the spirit of support and, crucially, friendship.”

His presence was especially meaningful, as both he and Princess Catherine had missed the previous year’s service due to cancer treatment.

Royal Appearances and Public Reaction

As the royal family entered the abbey, fashion and body language quickly became a topic of public discussion. King Charles and Prince William opted for formal dark suits, while Queen Camilla appeared in pink and Princess Catherine in a striking red ensemble.

However, a moment captured on video sparked online debate. In the footage, Prince William greeted his father and stepmother with kisses on the cheek. Princess Catherine, meanwhile, greeted Queen Camilla, but King Charles appeared engrossed in another conversation and did not greet her. Catherine maintained a warm smile and showed no signs of disturbance.

Social Media Speculation Over Royal Interaction

The video quickly made the rounds on TikTok and other platforms, leading to widespread commentary.

One user remarked:
“Did Charles not care to look at Catherine? Not even a blown kiss? Guess he’s still salty people pushed back at BP’s female royal photographers shade post for #IWD2025.”

Others expressed similar sentiments:
“He totally ignored her,” one user said, while another commented, “This isn’t the first time he has snubbed Kate Middleton.”

There were also broader observations about the moment:
“Honestly, Charles doesn’t look like he even cares much for William’s greeting. That whole little moment is kinda uncomfortable to watch,” one viewer wrote.

Alternative Views and Possible Explanations

Not all commentary was negative. Some suggested that the moment may have been misinterpreted.

“Maybe he is sicker than we are allowed to know and she did not want to give him her germs,” one user speculated. “Unless the King was getting kissed by all and sundry, I think this is an indication about how sick he really is.”

Others believed it could have been nothing more than an oversight or a logistical moment during a formal procession.

“May be accidental as they were directed to walk,” one person commented, while another added, “They must have greeted or met already the same day.”

Showing support for the monarch, another user insisted:
“King Charles has been doing this all his life. He knows exactly who to greet and when. He has a very close relationship with Catherine and would never publicly snub her.”