British singer Jessie J is receiving widespread praise after revealing that she hugged Princess Kate during the Royal Variety Performance in London on November 19, despite being briefed not to initiate physical contact with members of the royal family.
Speaking on the U.K. program “The Morning,” the 37-year-old artist explained that the emotional moment came from a deeply personal place. Jessie J, who recently underwent treatment for early breast cancer, said she felt a connection to the Princess of Wales, who publicly disclosed her own cancer diagnosis in March 2024.
“I just saw a mom that has also gone through cancer publicly, and I just wanted to give her a hug,” Jessie said. “It was as simple as that.”
Before stepping onstage, Jessie said she was instructed not to hug the princess—a standard protocol for public royal appearances. But when the pair met backstage, she felt compelled to embrace Kate.
“I asked if I could hug her, and she said yes,” Jessie told viewers, adding that she told the princess she was “inspiring.”
Shared Cancer Journeys Create Emotional Bond
Jessie J announced in June that she had been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer. After surgery, doctors confirmed the cancer had not spread, but she later suffered complications that led to hospitalization from an infection. She shared that she is currently doing well, humorously crediting her glowing appearance to being “in glam for six hours.”
Princess Kate, 43, underwent abdominal surgery earlier in 2024 and later revealed she was receiving preventative chemotherapy. In January, she announced that her cancer was in remission, thanking medical staff and expressing support for others facing treatment.
The moment between the women, captured during the Royal Albert Hall event, has been widely shared online, with many viewers touched by the rare instance of vulnerability during a traditionally formal royal setting.
A Human Moment Beyond Protocol
Jessie J said she acted not as a celebrity meeting royalty, but as a fellow mother and survivor.
“I know the days she has maybe gone through,” she said. “Mom to mom, human to human — I just wanted to give her a hug.”
Fans and commentators have praised the gesture as a powerful reminder of compassion transcending protocol, particularly given how both women have spoken publicly about the emotional and physical challenges of cancer treatment.
Jessie J on Moving Forward
Reflecting on her recovery, Jessie said she tries to stay optimistic and creative.
“In hard times I’m like, ‘Oh, this will make for some good songs,’” she said. “Put your umbrella up and just keep walking through the rain.”
The heartfelt exchange stands as one of the most personal moments of the 2025 Royal Variety Performance, reinforcing both women’s roles as advocates for strength and resilience.
