In a revealing discussion on the evolving public dynamics between Prince William and Kate Middleton, royal experts have shed light on the affectionate gestures that have increasingly characterized the couple's appearances. This insight comes amid growing observations of their public displays of affection, a marked shift from the typically reserved nature of the British royal family.

Katie Nicholl, a noted royal biographer and Vanity Fair's royal editor, recently joined Kinsey Schofield on her YouTube series "Kinsey Schofield Unfiltered." Schofield, also the host of the royal podcast "To Di For Daily," and author of "R is for Revenge Dress: A Princess Diana-Inspired Alphabet Book for Grown-Ups," delved into the endearing moments shared by the Prince and Princess of Wales.

The conversation highlighted a now-viral moment from the 2023 BAFTAs, where Kate Middleton was seen playfully tapping Prince William's behind. Nicholl revealed that this was not an isolated incident, but rather a sweet habit of the Duchess of Cambridge. "I remember being in baton once with them and seeing her do exactly the same," Nicholl recalled. "It was more a little tap on the buttock. But it's just that moment of intimacy and familiarity that you forget. She's walking down the red carpet, so who knows how deliberate it was. I know that she finds William irresistible when he's in a tux."

Such gestures, according to Nicholl, exemplify the comfort and love between the couple. "She has been known to pat him on the bottom sometimes when she thinks no one's looking," Nicholl added. "The problem is, there is always someone looking." She recounted an instance where, after a photo shoot, Middleton gave William a tap on the bottom, mistakenly believing the cameras were down.

These moments of affection contrast sharply with the more formal demeanor traditionally associated with the royal family. Historically, members like Prince William and Kate Middleton have been cautious about public displays of affection, maintaining a composed and reserved image. Nicholl noted, "They were quite careful not to do any public displays of affection. They wouldn't really hold hands."

However, this reserved approach appears to be softening. Recent public appearances have shown the couple "looking lovingly at each other," a shift that royal watchers have welcomed. Schofield remarked on the unusual nature of such displays within the royal family, drawing comparisons to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, who have been notably tactile since their relationship began.

Nicholl suggested that the increased public affection between William and Kate is a testament to their deepening bond and comfort with each other. "Now, I think they're just so comfortable with each other and clearly very much in love that those PDAs are something we've gotten more used to," she said. "But it was a beautiful moment on that balcony."

This analysis coincides with Kate Middleton's recent return to public life following her battle with cancer, an event that undoubtedly placed emotional strain on the couple. Nicholl highlighted the significance of Middleton's appearance at Trooping the Colour, her first major outing since announcing her diagnosis in March. "It probably took a lot of effort for Middleton to join the royal family for Trooping the Colour," Nicholl noted, emphasizing Prince William's likely pride in his wife's resilience.

An unnamed source further revealed to Life & Style that Middleton had concerns about her appearance at the parade, fearing she might look "tired and too thin." However, the public's warm reception reportedly boosted her confidence, much to Prince William's delight. "He was very proud of her," the source said.