In a delightful surprise for royal fans, Prince William debuted a bold new beard in a video message released with his wife, Kate Middleton, on August 11. The couple appeared together to congratulate Team GB on their impressive achievements at the 2024 Paris Olympics.

The video featured not only the Prince and Princess of Wales but also a star-studded lineup including Snoop Dogg, David Beckham, and Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill. Together, they sent warm wishes to the British athletes who represented England at the Games.

While the celebratory message was well-received, it was Prince William’s unexpected new look that captured the attention of fans and social media alike. The future king, usually clean-shaven, appeared with a full beard—something he hasn’t sported publicly in years.

Body language expert Judi James weighed in on the possible significance of William’s facial hair, suggesting it could be a symbolic gesture. “William’s rugged beard looks like a poignant nod to the last time he was seen sporting one, back in 2008, when he was celebrating being reunited with Kate after their four-month break-up,” James explained to The Sun.

James also speculated that the beard might be a “symbolic form of celebration” in light of Kate’s return to the public eye amid her ongoing battle with cancer. The expert noted that William’s new look might be his way of signaling that he has been steadfastly caring for his family during this challenging period.

The video appearance comes as the royal couple enjoys their summer holiday at their Norfolk home. They are expected to join the rest of the royal family at Balmoral with their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis—in the coming weeks.

As the Prince and Princess of Wales continue to support each other and their family through both public and private challenges, their recent video not only highlights their commitment to British athletes but also underscores the strength of their partnership during trying times.