Prince Harry’s appearance at the 2024 ESPY Awards in Los Angeles on Thursday night was marked by palpable tension and a visible struggle with the criticisms surrounding his receipt of the Pat Tillman Award. Despite the controversy, the Duke of Sussex chose to attend the ceremony and personally accept the award, delivering a speech that underscored his dedication to the causes he champions.
Body language expert Judi James provided an insightful analysis of Prince Harry’s demeanor during his acceptance speech, noting that he was acutely aware of the criticisms directed at him. "Harry's body language during his speech suggested his complete awareness of the criticism that had been brewing prior to it," James told The Sun. "Like any good A-list actor accepting an Oscar, he began by looking overwhelmed and shocked, with a good dollop of humble thrown in."
James observed that Prince Harry’s posture and facial expressions conveyed a sense of performative disbelief. He stood hunched, his eyes appearing haunted and terrified. His gestures, including rubbing his face and looking down, indicated that he was overwhelmed. "A loud puffing exhale suggested a re-boot and then his tongue-poke hinted at reluctance," James added.
The Duke of Sussex’s discomfort was particularly evident when he mentioned Pat Tillman’s mother, Mary. She had publicly criticized the choice to award Prince Harry, calling him "a controversial and divisive individual" and suggesting that there were "recipients that are far more fitting." James noted that there was "postural awkwardness" as Harry praised Mary, with one foot lifted off the ground before he started to sway slightly. His body language reflected a struggle to maintain composure in the face of such pointed disapproval.
"There was an eye-wince of shared emotion when he described the bond between a mother and son as 'eternal,'" James pointed out. This moment of shared emotion highlighted the complex interplay of respect and discomfort in Prince Harry’s speech.
Prince Harry’s speech included moments where he appeared to gather himself with visible effort. His gestures, such as sucking his lips, clamping them shut, and jutting his lower jaw, along with a furrowed brow, underscored his determination to convey his message despite the controversy. "His 'this award belongs to them, not me' signaled the start of his rituals of firm defiance," James observed.
"Harry began to bite at his words with a defiant micro-wince and a clenching of the jaw," she continued. "He splayed his legs to show growing confidence for his campaigning theme while clutching his award like a weapon." These gestures indicated his resolve to stand firm in his beliefs and commitments.
The relief was evident on Prince Harry’s face as he concluded his speech and exited the stage. "There was a Harry-hug for the presenters at the end as he turned to throw his arms around all three of them and then a smile of what looked like relief as he walked off backstage," James noted.
Despite the controversy and the public criticisms, Prince Harry chose to accept the award in person, demonstrating his commitment to the Invictus Games and the causes he supports. Michael Cole, a former BBC journalist and royal commentator, had suggested that Prince Harry should either "politely decline" the award or "not accept it in person." However, Harry decided to face the criticism head-on and used the platform to honor the Invictus Games Foundation and the veterans it supports.
In his speech, Prince Harry emphasized that the award was not about him, but about the participants of the Invictus Games. "I stand here not as Prince Harry, Pat Tillman Award recipient, but rather a voice on behalf of the Invictus Games Foundation and the thousands of veterans and service personnel from over 20 nations who have made the Invictus Games a reality," he stated.
Prince Harry’s appearance at the ESPY Awards highlighted the challenges he faces in navigating his public role amidst ongoing scrutiny. His body language and speech reflected a man deeply committed to his cause, yet acutely aware of the controversies surrounding him. Despite the criticisms, he remained focused on the message of support and advocacy for veterans, demonstrating resilience and dedication in the face of adversity.