Prince William rubs shoulders with David Beckham and stars at the Bafta awards
Prince William arrives at the BAFTAs 2024
The Prince of Wales attended this year’s Bafta (British Academy of Film and Television Arts) celebrations alone on Sunday as he cheerfully arrived on the red carpet at the Royal Festival Hall in London.
Prince William appeared solo as his wife, Katherine, the Princess of Wales, remained at home to recover from her recent operation.
The Prince has served as president of the academy since 2010 and arrived wearing a blue blazer, black lapels, black trousers, and a white shirt complete with a bow tie.
He was spotted during the festivities mingling with the likes of football legend David Beckham and Australian actress Cate Blanchett.
The Princess of Wales was noticeably absent after being hospitalised to undergo abdominal surgery last month.
King Charles III’s recent cancer diagnosis has also put extra responsibilities on William’s shoulders as he’s expected to pick up some of his father's public duties.
The Prince shook hands with football legend David Beckham
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Not long after arriving, the prince was pictured with Beckham, 48, as the pair exchanged smiles and shook hands while having a chat.
Beckham seemed at ease as he caught up with the future monarch. Later, actress Blanchett was seen enjoying some conversation with the prince.
She was all smiles as she took her seat next to Prince William during the ceremony and the two were seen talking at several different points throughout the evening.
The 54-year-old had opted for a high-neck maroon dress and wore her hair in a classic updo as celebrities from across the world of entertainment gathered to honour the best films from the last year.
Cate Blanchett hugged the Prince of Wales before the pair were seated next to each other
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Fans were delighted to spot the Prince of Wales back in attendance of public engagements, with many taking to social media to comment on his presence at the awards.
Taking to X, formerly Twitter, one fan wrote: "The introductory bit between #DavidTennant and #MichaelSheen was hilarious, so was Andy Serkis as Bark Ruffalo. Lovely to see #PrinceWilliam in attendance. #BAFTAS."
"Prince William at the #BAFTAs, always fun and cool to see! #PrinceofWales #PrinceWilliam," a second shared.
Another viewer penned: "Hollywood is always Team Prince William #PrinceWilliam #PrinceofWales #BAFTAs."
Actress Blanchett was seated next to Prince William during the ceremony
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"Dignified #PrinceOfWales #PrinceWilliam #BAFTA2024 #BAFTAs," someone else commented simply, while another pointed out: "The Prince of Wales looks so happy."
"There he is! Hi Prince William!!!" another enthused while a seventh added: "The Prince of Wales. President of BAFTA," (sic) along with several clapping emojis.
Prince William was appointed the President of the Bafta awards in 2010 and attends the celebration each year.
His return to public duties comes after the prince took a short hiatus from engagements after attending the London Air Ambulance Gala on February 7.