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Princess Kate Middleton and singer Jessie J shared a touching moment at the Royal Variety Performance at London's Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday, November 19, bonding over their experiences with cancer.
The Princess of Wales, 43, and the "Price Tag" singer, 37, were photographed embracing, a moment Jessie later described to The Independent: "Mum to mum, who has just recently gone through cancer, I just wanted to give her a hug. We acknowledged that it's something that is not easy to go through, especially in the public eye."
Kate, who stepped back from public duties in 2024 due to her treatment, attended the event in a dark green velvet gown by Talbot Runhof. She was joined by her husband, Prince William, 43, who wore a black velvet tuxedo. It marked the couple's first red carpet appearance at the Royal Variety Performance in two years. The evening was hosted by comedian Jason Manford and benefited the Royal Variety Charity, which supports entertainment industry workers facing mental health challenges. Performers included Jessie J, Icelandic singer Laufey, and casts from Paddington the Musical and Les Misérables.
Earlier this year, Kate opened up about her own cancer diagnosis, revealing in March 2024 that she was undergoing preventative chemotherapy. In a personal video, she explained, "In January, I underwent major abdominal surgery in London, and at the time, it was thought that my condition was non-cancerous. After I underwent tests following the surgery, it was determined that cancer had been present."
By September 2024, Kate announced she had completed chemotherapy, later confirming in January that she was in remission. She expressed deep gratitude for the support she and William received throughout her health journey, acknowledging the care, guidance, and quiet presence of those who had helped them navigate the challenges of her treatment.
Jessie J, who publicly revealed her early breast cancer diagnosis in June, underwent surgery later that month. Her second operation, initially scheduled for October, was postponed. Sharing her experience with fans, she explained, "A week before my surgery I went to my surgeon and we discussed my surgery and it felt a little more complex than he was anticipating and referred me to a different surgeon... I think this can wait a little while." In another update, Jessie wrote, "5 months since my surgery and still very much in recovery and trying to learn and deepen my understanding on why and how to do what I can for it to not come back."
