Prince Harry's bravado 'melts away' as court fight over UK security continue

Prince Harry returned to London’s Royal Courts of Justice today, but unlike the confident entrance he made yesterday, the Duke of Sussex appeared more subdued—and body language experts have taken notice.

On the second day of his high-profile legal battle over UK security arrangements, the 39-year-old royal was noticeably less self-assured, according to body language analyst Judi James.

"Compared to yesterday's arrival at court, this is a much less assured-looking appearance from Harry," James told Express. "His body language signals suggest he might be feeling more deflated and anxious, as some of the cocky-looking bravado begins to evaporate visually."

James noted subtle signs of unease, pointing out a "thoughtful frown," a protective hand gesture across his stomach, and his apparent need to look back at his team for support.

"His brows seem pulled into a thoughtful frown and his left elbow looks crooked as he walks," she explained. "His right hand shows an increase in barrier-checking rituals which can imply he's feeling a little more vulnerable and self-conscious."

James also noticed that instead of leading the group into court, the Duke paused to look back at his entourage, holding out a subdued "hail" gesture—far from a confident wave.

Why is Prince Harry back in the UK?

Prince Harry is currently appealing a 2023 High Court decision that ruled against him receiving full police protection while visiting the UK. 

At the heart of the case is Ravec—the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures—which downgraded his security following his and Meghan Markle’s 2020 exit from senior royal duties.

During today’s proceedings, Home Office lawyer Sir James Eadie KC defended the decision and stressed that the fallout from security rulings ultimately rests with the Secretary of State. He also underscored Ravec’s role as an expert body handling sensitive matters, including national security.

This legal showdown comes just one day after Harry revealed to the court that he and Meghan “felt forced” to step back from royal duties, believing the institution failed to adequately protect them.

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