Hannah Waddingham, known for her role in Ted Lasso, has described her encounter with Prince William as “absolutely thrilling,” calling him a “glorious gentleman” and the “beating heart” of the Earthshot Prize. The actress, 50, met the Prince at the Earthshot Prize Awards in Singapore last year, where she co-hosted the event alongside Sterling K. Brown.
Recalling their meeting, Waddingham told Parade Magazine that she and Brown approached William, 42, to share their admiration. “We told him he’s a cut above the rest,” she said. The Prince’s genuine dedication to environmental causes left a lasting impression. “It’s not just a vanity project for him,” she explained. “He truly cares.”
She continued, “That man is passionate about the environment. I was proud to represent his organization, even in a small way.”
The Earthshot Prize, founded by Prince William in 2020, awards £1 million to each of five winners annually, recognizing innovative solutions in environmental conservation across categories like ocean revival and climate restoration. Speaking during the awards, William highlighted the importance of celebrating optimism. “We need to focus on solutions, not just problems,” he emphasized.
In Singapore, Waddingham said she observed firsthand the Prince’s hands-on approach. “He’s not just a figurehead; he’s deeply involved.”
Fast-forward to last week, and the camaraderie between Waddingham and the Prince was on full display during a lighthearted game of darts at London’s Alexandra Palace. The playful nine-minute sketch was filmed to promote The Earthshot Report, William’s new environmental documentary.
Body language expert Judi James noted their easy rapport, describing William as “playful, like a schoolboy.” She added, “Hannah’s assertive humor brought out a chuckling, relaxed side of the Prince that we rarely see.”
During the game, Waddingham teased William about his environmental focus on seaweed, referencing Notpla, an Earthshot winner developing sustainable packaging. William gamely explained, “Seaweed is an incredible resource. It’s about rethinking how we use nature in ways that benefit everyone.”
The Prince also spoke about instilling environmental awareness in his children, Prince George, 11, Princess Charlotte, 9, and Prince Louis, 6. “I talk to my kids all the time about nature,” he said. “It’s crucial for them to see and experience it firsthand. You can’t protect something you don’t value.”
Dressed casually in a blue jumper and sustainable sneakers, William exuded his trademark approachability. “Every family can make a difference,” he said, highlighting his own household’s efforts in recycling and water conservation.
As the Earthshot Prize grows, the Prince’s vision remains clear: fostering global-scale solutions to environmental challenges. Reflecting on his mission, he said, “We’re not here to preach. We’re here to find practical, scalable ideas that inspire action.”
For Waddingham, working alongside the Prince is a memory she cherishes. “He’s truly the beating heart of this initiative,” she concluded.
The next Earthshot Prize Awards promise to shine an even brighter spotlight on those changing the world—a mission that continues to define Prince William’s legacy.
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