What Prince Andrew said to Prince William in a royal frosty exchange, lip reader reveals all

The Duchess of Kent’s funeral was a solemn moment of royal unity; however, a tense exchange between Prince Andrew and Prince William stole the spotlight.

A lip reader has revealed what was said in the frosty interaction outside Westminster Cathedral on Tuesday, when the Duke of York attempted to strike up a conversation with his nephew.

Prince Andrew was seen muttering to Prince William, who declined to engage, responding only with a brief nod.

Body language expert Judi James told the Daily Mail that Prince William’s “non-verbal responses” suggested awkwardness and a subliminal desire to reject Prince Andrew’s overtures, making their exchange appear standoffish.

She described Prince Andrew’s expression as a “smug-looking smile” while trying to coax a response.

The exchange came against the backdrop of ongoing fallout from Prince Andrew’s association with convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein — a scandal that forced him to step back from royal duties six years ago.

Historian Andrew Lownie’s explosive biography, Entitled has reignited scrutiny, with some passages reportedly so sensitive they had to be removed “enough to bring down the monarchy.”

During the funeral, Prince Andrew’s ex-wife Sarah, Duchess of York, leaned forward to speak to Prince William, who turned briefly to reply, as did his wife, Princess Kate. The couple, however, kept their conversation brief and exited swiftly once the King departed.

King Charles was seen offering warm words to the Princess of Wales before leaving, prompting her to smile, approach him, and curtsy.

It was reported that as the coffin of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, was carried into the state hearse, Prince Andrew turned to Prince William and said: “We had a lovely time, didn’t we then.”

The Prince of Wales did not respond, simply glancing at his uncle before looking forward, rubbing his nose and rocking on his heels.

Ms James explained that Prince William’s body language indicated he was polite but clearly uncomfortable, with gestures like avoiding eye contact, rubbing his nose in a barrier-like manner, and signalling “subject closed” by shifting his weight.

Undeterred, Prince Andrew made another attempt: “And spending time with us,” he added.

Prince William again remained silent, merely nodding his head.

Ms James said that Prince William’s gestures sent a clear signal.

“Firstly, he barely inclines his head in Andrew’s direction and then he seems to avoid eye contact, looking down or away.

“William is at some pains to appear polite despite potentially feeling compromised here, but he is clearly made uncomfortable and is perhaps relieved when he can return to the more solemn facial expression of mourning.”

Prince Andrew later exchanged a few words with Princess Anne, telling her: “Shall (we) go that way and we can leave there?” and asking: “Where is she? Oh, over there, is she coming?”

He was spotted thanking clergy and chatting to other guests before heading to his car, The Daily Mail reported.

Following the funeral, the Duchess’ coffin was to be taken to a burial ground at Frogmore on the royal estate surrounding Windsor Castle, which is preparing to host US President Donald Trump for a state visit from Wednesday.

King Charles has for many years stated that he wishes to protect all faiths, and he and his wife Camilla were among the last official visitors to see Pope Francis before his death in April.

Pope Leo XIV said he was saddened to learn of the Duchess’ death in a message to the King, which was read out at the service.