Body Language Expert Decodes Sussexes' Australian Tour Dynamics
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have embarked on a four-day quasi-royal tour of Australia, with their arrival in Melbourne sparking detailed analysis from body language specialist Judi James. The expert claims Harry appears to be revelling in the spotlight while Meghan demonstrates carefully crafted humility through traditional royal gestures.
Confident Harry Takes Centre Stage
The Duke of Sussex, 41, arrived in Australia aboard a business class Qantas flight from Los Angeles, leaving children Archie and Lilibet in California. According to James, Harry immediately positioned himself as "the main star of the show" during their arrival at the Australian National Veterans Arts Museum. "His splayed chest and the way he strides ahead dominating the attention look like excited arrival signals," James told the Daily Mail.
The body language expert noted Harry's theatrical gestures, particularly during a hospital visit where he placed a hand across his chest in what James described as "a theatrical gesture of surprise, humility and gratitude." This heart-covering ritual, typically seen in performers accepting applause, was interpreted as Harry's response to public approval.
Meghan's Royal-Ish Demeanor
Meghan Markle, 44, despite having left royal duties six years ago, appeared to rely on mannerisms learned during her time as a working royal. James observed "clearly regal elements" in her body language, including traditional royal tour gestures like hailing waves, extended handshakes with patients, and floor-crouches to engage with children.
"So far so 'royal-ish' then," James remarked, noting that Meghan added "contrasting, emphatic non-verbal tells of humility" to their public appearances. The Duchess maintained physical closeness to Harry, with James describing her as "clinging" to her husband during arrivals and employing familiar "attachment rituals" reminiscent of their engagement photocall.
Tour Activities and Public Engagement
The couple's first day included a visit to the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne, where approximately seventy staff, parents, and young patients awaited their arrival. They toured the Adolescent Oncology and Rehabilitation ward and participated in a garden therapy session. Throughout these engagements, both Harry and Meghan displayed what James called "signals of humility," with Harry entering "comedic mode" and Meghan using hunched shoulders and grateful smiles.
Their tactile relationship remained prominently displayed, with James noting: "Meghan's torso is turned in towards him and her lovingly clingy two-handed clasp of his hand as she follows his eye-gaze lets us know the doting couple are still very much a thing."
Controversy Over Funding and Security
The privately-funded tour has faced criticism regarding security costs potentially falling on Australian taxpayers. Victorian Opposition Leader Jess Wilson expressed concern about police resources being diverted for the couple's protection, stating: "Any suggestion that officers are going to be pulled off duty to provide security and protection for Harry and Meghan’s visit is absolutely unacceptable."
Libertarian MP David Limbrick echoed these sentiments, arguing that Victorian taxpayers should not fund security for "millionaires." Meanwhile, tens of thousands have signed petitions demanding the Sussexes cover all costs themselves.
Upcoming Engagements and Financial Aspects
The four-day itinerary includes Harry's appearance at an Invictus Australia event in Sydney and Meghan's participation in the 'Her Best Life' retreat at Coogee Beach. Meghan's retreat tickets cost up to $3,199 AUD, including photo opportunities and gala dinner access, with reports suggesting her fee approaches $250,000.
Harry will headline the InterEdge Summit in Melbourne, where ticket prices range from £525 to £1,250, with virtual access to his speech alone costing £260. Despite the controversies, the couple's body language suggests they are navigating the tour with a blend of royal tradition and carefully performed humility, according to expert analysis.
