A tender moment between First Lady Brigitte Macron and Princess Catherine during a recent state visit has captured hearts, while a fleeting gesture from President Emmanuel Macron at a banquet sparked online chatter, revealing the power of subtle exchanges in diplomacy.
On July 8, 2025, French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, landed in the UK for a three-day state visit. The Prince and Princess of Wales greeted them at RAF Northolt, sharing warm smiles and handshakes. In a YouTube clip, Emmanuel offered Princess Catherine a gentle air kiss, while Brigitte exchanged kind words with both royals.
Lip reader Sarah Thompson decoded Brigitte’s words to Catherine: “It’s wonderful to see you, you look radiant.” Emmanuel echoed the sentiment, saying, “Thank you, it’s great to be here.” The exchange carried weight given Catherine’s recent health battle. The 43-year-old princess, who announced her cancer diagnosis in March 2024, shared her remission milestone in January 2025 after treatment at The Royal Marsden Hospital.
Brigitte’s compliment, though simple, resonated as a nod to Catherine’s resilience. The moment stood out amid the visit’s formalities, which included a ceremonial welcome by King Charles III and Queen Camilla on Datchet Road, Windsor. The visit, the first by an EU leader since Brexit, underscored UK-France ties.
That evening, a grand state banquet at St George’s Hall hosted 160 guests. Charles delivered a speech celebrating the nations’ “shared heritage and future,” praising France’s cultural and diplomatic contributions. Emmanuel later met Prime Minister Keir Starmer to discuss migration, defense, and trade, highlighting the visit’s strategic importance.
Yet, it was Emmanuel’s interaction with Catherine at the banquet that stole the spotlight. During a toast, cameras caught him winking at her, igniting online debate. Some called it charming, others inappropriate. Social media buzzed: “Kate’s grace is unmatched ❤️,” one user wrote. Another quipped, “That wink’s trouble with Brigitte 😅.” A critic fumed, “Disrespectful for a state event!” while a supporter said, “Just French flair, no harm done.”
On Facebook, reactions varied. “A wink’s just fun!” one user defended, while another called it “out of line.” Some praised Emmanuel’s earlier hand-kiss as “gallant,” noting, “He respects our future queen!” Others speculated the seating—Catherine next to Emmanuel—was strategic, as he seemed “captivated.”
The controversy showed how a single gesture can overshadow diplomacy. Neither Emmanuel nor Kensington Palace commented, letting the debate unfold. In a world where every move is watched, a wink proved enough to spark a global conversation.
Images from the State Visit
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Emmanuel Macron toasts with Princess Catherine at Windsor Castle’s state banquet on July 8, 2025, his wink fueling online speculation.
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Cameras capture Emmanuel’s wink to Catherine during their toast, stirring varied reactions.
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Emmanuel chats warmly with Catherine at the banquet, his smile lighting up the moment.
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Emmanuel and Catherine clink glasses at the lavish dinner, joined by royals and dignitaries.
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Emmanuel raises a glass with King Charles III at Windsor Castle, exuding charm.
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Emmanuel applauds Charles’s speech, a highlight of the banquet’s first night.
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The ornate St George’s Hall, prepared for the banquet hosting the Macrons and dignitaries.
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Emmanuel and Charles converse over drinks, with Catherine smiling nearby.
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Emmanuel delivers a speech at the grand event honoring his UK visit.
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Charles speaks to a long table of royals and diplomats, setting a stately tone.
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Emmanuel listens as Charles addresses the banquet in his honor.
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William and Catherine, in elegant attire, share a private moment amid the banquet’s bustle.
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Charles and Emmanuel walk to the banquet, trailed by Camilla, Brigitte, and others.
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William and Catherine beam as they head to the event for the Macrons.
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A close-up of Catherine at the banquet, her graceful smile shining in royal attire.
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