Prince Harry Was Uncomfortable With Meghan's Latest Move 'For the Cameras'
Body language expert Judi James analyzed the Sussexes' NBA outing, suggesting their smiles for the cameras were carefully curated.
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle were all smiles as they attended the NBA All-Star Game on February 15. Opting for a low-key Valentine's Day, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex headed to the basketball event after a romantic dinner date in Beverly Hills. While the couple smiled and waved at the cameras, body language expert Judi James believes Harry was uncomfortable with the paparazzi fanfare. Analyzing footage from the night, she claimed Markle exuded much more confidence, but was determined to show off her relationship.
Speaking to The Mirror, James said, "Meghan's wide, symmetric smile for the cameras and raised and rounded cheeks suggest she's delighted by the attention and the opportunity to create her own perfectly curated set of Valentine love signals to show off her relationship with Harry." Pointing out how Markle directed Harry's attention to the cameras as they appeared on the Jumbotron screen, she added, "She [Markle] holds his [Harry's] thigh in a possessive and flirty looking gesture, or she clings onto his arm with both hands to register closeness."
While Markle did not shy away from PDA, James noted that she was equally engrossed in the happenings of the game. Likewise, Harry seemed much more interested in concentrating on the match, even humoring his wife in posing for photos. The body language expert highlighted, "Harry appears less comfortable posing for the camera here… His wide leg splay hints at confidence, but maybe just a desire to enjoy watching the game." During the match, the couple was seated beside Queen Latifah and her partner, Eboni Nichols, as they chatted and mingled effortlessly.
Similarly, lip reader Nicola Hickling also decoded Harry and Markle's behavior and pulled the curtains on their conversation during the night. She told the Royal Insider that the Duke appeared to say, "I can't explain it, there are so many rules." The Duchess, who then laughed, reportedly replied, "Explain it to me, I really don't understand the game." Harry then quipped, "I know that… I can't always explain it over and over again."
Since relocating to the USA, the Sussexes have often been spotted at high-profile sporting events, enjoying the Californian lifestyle. Sports have always played an important role in Harry's life, especially through the Invictus Games, which he launched in 2014 to support wounded veterans. For her part, Markle regularly joins him at games and charity events, both during their time as senior royals and after stepping back from royal duties. Last October, they were in attendance at Game 4 of the 2025 World Series in Los Angeles, cheering on the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Toronto Blue Jays at Dodger Stadium.
