Prince William alludes to Kate’s recovery keeping him busy on BAFTAs red carpet

Prince William made a personal confession during his appearance at the 2024 BAFTA Film Awards on Sunday.

The Prince of Wales, 41, attended the star-studded ceremony solo as his wife, Kate Middleton, continues to recover from her abdominal surgery behind closed doors.

While attending 77th annual awards, William was asked whether he’s team “Barbie” or “Oppenheimer” — referring to the same day release double-feature that rocked the box office last summer.

The Prince of Wales, 41, attended the star-studded ceremony solo as his wife, Kate Middleton, continues to recover from her abdominal surgery. Rune Hellestad/UPI/Shutterstock

But William told the Telegraph he has yet to see “Barbie” as well as the other 37 films nominated in other categories as he’s been busy at home.

“I’ve done [watched] the fewest I’ve ever done before — with my wife it’s been a bit–,” he said, without elaborating on his wife’s recovery.

“But hopefully, we’ll catch up, I’ll make my list tonight,” he said. “I’m a big fan of Christopher Nolan so I’ll be pleased if he wins, I loved ‘Oppenheimer.’”

“I haven’t watched Barbie yet, but I want to,” the heir to the throne added.

William put on a brave face Sunday as he walked the red carpet and rubbed elbows with Hollywood royalty, including Bradley Cooper, Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt, Cate Blanchett, and Emma Stone.

Elsewhere during the star-studded ceremony, which took place at the Royal Festival Hall in London, actor Michael J. Fox was honored with a standing ovation as he presented an award onstage.

The Prince and Princess of Wales attended the BAFTAs together in 2023. Dave J Hogan/Getty Images

The “Back to the Future” alum, who has been battling Parkinson’s disease for decades, was seen getting out of his wheelchair to present the award for best film to “Oppenheimer.”

The father of three, who has been president of BAFTA since 2010, was also seen sharing a friendly moment with David Beckham, whom he has known for years.

And while Middleton and King Charles each deal with their respective health woes, William did not let his family’s rough patch affect his mood at the awards.

William was seen mingling with Hollywood’s finest, including actress Cate Blanchett. Getty Images

According to top body language expert Darren Stanton, the Prince of Wales appeared “confident” and wasn’t fazed by the attention he was getting.

“Despite not having Kate by his side, William was in a relaxed emotional state,” Stanton said on behalf of Betfair Slingo. “He also spent a lot of time speaking to the public, where he showed great eye contact and was happy to shake hands, which is a break in royal protocol.”

Middleton was forced to miss out on this year’s star-studded event following her surgery. AP

“This is something we never saw the late Queen do. It’s clear that William wants a more relaxed monarchy and wants to be part of the people,” he added.

As for the Princess of Wales, she is making a “steady recovery” and is not expected to make a return to royal duties until after Easter.