Prince William choked up over Paddington moment before BAFTA appearance

Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales, made a surprise appearance at the 2026 BAFTA Film Awards on February 22, sharing the spotlight with Paddington Bear in an emotional nod to the late Queen Elizabeth II, according to the Mirror.

The couple walked the red carpet at London’s Royal Festival Hall, delighting fans amid earlier speculation about their attendance.

Paddington Bear, who became a symbol of remembrance following the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee sketch, also attended and presented during the ceremony. Following the Queen’s passing in 2022, thousands of Paddington toys and handwritten notes were left outside royal residences, leaving a lasting emotional impact on Prince William. He later described seeing these tributes as “choked up” moments.

In September 2022, William and Catherine visited Windsor Guildhall to thank volunteers and staff who assisted during the national mourning period. The Prince reflected on how public grief affected him, noting that unexpected moments, such as the outpouring of Paddington tributes, were particularly moving.

The 2026 BAFTA Awards, broadcast live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer at 7 p.m., celebrated the best in British and international cinema. Hosted by Alan Cumming, presenters included Aimee Lou Wood, Stormzy, Gillian Anderson, Bryan Cranston, Alicia Vikander, Regé-Jean Page, Hannah Waddingham, and Riz Ahmed.

Prince William has served as president of the British Academy of Film and Television Arts since 2010, maintaining a long-standing connection to the prestigious awards. The presence of Paddington Bear reinforced a touching tribute to the Queen while highlighting a full-circle moment for the Prince and Princess of Wales.