Prince George smiles ear to ear as Richard E. Grant reads ‘A Christmas Carol’
Prince George was feeling the festive spirit at his mom Kate Middleton’s annual “Together at Christmas” carol service.
The second-in-line for the throne, 11, was all smiles as he listened to Richard E. Grant, 67, do a dramatic reading of a passage from Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” clearly enjoying the Oscar-nominated actor’s performance.
Young George wasn’t the only royal to enjoy Grant’s Dickensian delivery. Cameras cut to his sister Princess Charlotte, 9, and brother Prince Louis, 6, grinning just as hard during the lighthearted moment.
Little Louis couldn’t contain his smirk as he peered around, bobbing back and forth in his seat, while a beaming Charlotte looked to her mom Catherine, 42, who was equally taken with Grant’s performance.
Elsewhere in the service, Charlotte was spotted giggling during the classic Christmas hymn “O Come All Ye Faithful,” before settling and displaying the calm poise for which she’s known — poise which she often needs as she takes mischievous Louis in hand when he gets squirrelly during public appearances.
Princess Charlotte took a particular delight in the Royal Ballet School dancers who graced the hallowed halls of London’s Westminster Abbey.
Now in its fourth year, “Together at Christmas” was recorded at the historic gothic cathedral on Dec. 6 but aired on ITV in the UK for the first time on Tuesday.
The Princess of Wales created the carol service in 2020 during the COVID pandemic. This year’s event was particularly poignant for Kate and her family as it marks the first Christmas since she was diagnosed with cancer.
The princess shared her diagnosis with the world in March, revealing that doctors found “cancer had been present” after she underwent a planned abdominal surgery in January. In September, Kate posted a video on social media announcing the happy news that she was cancer-free.
The future queen’s father-in-law, King Charles III, was also diagnosed with cancer earlier this year.
In addition to her three children, Kate was joined by her husband Prince William, 42, at the Christmas service, which she opened with a speech that alluded to her recent health struggles.
“The Christmas story encourages us to consider the experiences and feelings of others,” Kate said.
“It also reflects our own vulnerabilities and reminds us of the importance of giving and receiving empathy, as well as just how much we need each other in spite of our differences. Above all else, it encourages us to turn to love, not fear.”
She continued, “The love that we show ourselves and the love we show others. Love that listens with empathy, love that is kind and understanding, love that is forgiving, and love that brings joy and hope.”
“It is love which is the greatest gift we can receive, not just at Christmas but every day of our lives.”
