The Prince and Princess of Wales made a glamorous appearance at the London premiere of the film ‘Digger’ on September 22, 2026. The event took place at the ODEON Luxe Leicester Square and attracted media attention as the royal couple walked the red carpet.
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Prior to the premiere, two young fans, brimming with excitement, made quite a charming scene. The girls were spotted practising their curtsies while eagerly awaiting the chance to meet the royal couple. Footage captured by reporter Rebecca English showcased the moment as the girls prepared for their encounter with Prince William and Princess Catherine.
As they stood behind a room divider, the older girl held a large bouquet of flowers while her younger companion clutched a Digger press pamphlet. Their anticipation was palpable as they peeked out from behind the divider, hoping to catch a glimpse of the royals. In a sweet display of readiness, the younger girl adjusted her socks, while the older one rehearsed her curtsy, indicating the importance of the moment to them.
When William and Catherine arrived, they warmly greeted the two girls. Their encounter was captured on video, showing the prince engaging in light-hearted conversation with the younger girl, while the princess spoke with the elder. The girls’ parents also joined in the conversation briefly, thanking the royal couple for their attention and the gifts they presented.
For the occasion, Princess Catherine dazzled in a sumptuous plum gown designed by Jenny Packham, which featured a plunging neckline, accentuated waist detailing, and a flowing skirt. Prince William complemented her look with a sophisticated black velvet suit jacket and matching trousers, making a striking duo on the red carpet.
During the event, the royal couple was photographed alongside ‘Digger’ star Tom Cruise, creating a memorable moment that echoed their previous encounter at the premiere of another of Cruise’s films, ‘Top Gun: Maverick’. Four years prior, the pair had attended the screening in a similar show of support for the film industry.
The premiere of ‘Digger’ also marked the 73rd Royal Film Performance, organised to benefit the U.K.’s Film and TV Charity. Upon their arrival, William and Catherine were received by representatives from the organisation before continuing on to meet the cast and crew, including Cruise and director Alejandro G. Iñárritu.
The previous Royal Film Performance took place in November 2024, featuring Ridley Scott’s ‘Gladiator II’. During that event, it was King Charles III who represented the royal family, having taken over the patronage of the charity after the passing of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.
While not serving as a patron of the Film and TV Charity, Prince William holds the prestigious title of President of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA). His role involves supporting the growth and development of the film, television, and video game industries within the United Kingdom, highlighting his ongoing commitment to the arts.
As the royal couple engaged with attendees at the premiere, their presence underscored the importance of supporting the film industry, particularly in light of challenges faced in recent years. The Digger premiere offered both glamour and charity, drawing attention to a worthy cause while celebrating cinematic creativity.
The event was a wonderful occasion not just for the royals but also for the young fans who witnessed the magic of the film premiere and the royal charm up close. The eagerness of the two girls to meet the Prince and Princess of Wales serves as a reminder of the impact that such encounters can have on young fans, fostering a sense of connection to the monarchy and the arts.