Moment Prince William left son George “take the lead” at Princess Kate’s Christmas carol service
Kate Middleton welcomed guests to her annual Together at Christmas carol service on Friday evening, joined by Prince William and their three children. The event, now in its fifth year, has grown into a warm tradition centred on the theme of love and quiet acts of kindness.
This year, however, there was a small hiccup before the service began. Reports suggested that actress Hannah Waddingham, who had been scheduled to perform, was forced to step back. According to HELLO!, an intense filming schedule left her voice strained, making it impossible for her to sing. Even so, she still attended the service and showed her support.
Hannah has long maintained a friendly connection with both William and Kate, having been involved in the Prince’s Earthshot Prize projects and even appearing in a light-hearted darts video with William last year.
Inside Westminster Abbey, the Wales children drew plenty of attention as they arrived with their father. George and Louis wore matching suits, while Charlotte chose a navy dress with a neat white-collar detail, finishing her look with a navy bow in her hair. A body language expert told the Mirror that William appeared to be encouraging George to take small steps toward greater independence by letting him walk ahead with quiet confidence.
A message from Kate that set the tone for the evening
Ahead of the event, the Princess of Wales shared a heartfelt letter with guests at Westminster Abbey, as well as with communities hosting their own local services. She reflected on how the festive season offers a moment of stillness and togetherness at a time when life can feel uncertain.
In her words, Christmas is shaped not by grand gestures, but by the smallest acts of care: listening, comforting, helping, showing up for someone who needs it. These small threads, she wrote, are what weave people together into a shared and meaningful community.
The evening carried exactly that spirit. A gathering that blended tradition, family, and gentle reminders of what the season is truly about.
