Prince Harry brutally snubbed by major film director | Royal | News
A brief and awkward conversation between Prince Harry and filmmaker Spike Lee during Game 5 of the NBA Finals sparked online criticism this week.
The 41-year-old Duke of Sussex attended the match with Meghan Markle at the Frost Bank Center on June 13, as the New York Knicks beat the host San Antonio Spurs to claim the franchise’s first NBA title in 53 years, seeded eighth.
Courtside positions were reserved for celebrities like Timothée Chalamet and Ben Stiller.
In the video, Harry can be seen moving towards Lee, 69, and extending his hand to shake hands, but there was no immediate response.
The prince placed his hand on the director’s torso for a moment before the pair held hands and Harry continued on his way. The images quickly divided observers.
Body language analyst Judi James told Daily Express US how this change could be interpreted.
“This seemingly terrifying ‘greeting’ ritual appears to involve a non-verbal ‘joke’ that causes Harry to smile as he is treated not only to a seat behind the stalls, but also to a partial handshake from someone one row further back,” he said.
“Harry seems pretty intent on greeting here, pushing his other elbow out for balance as he extends his hand and arm. Spike, however, appears to keep his hands clasped behind his back, leading to strange-looking movements between them. Pointing in this way is simulating some sort of attack, and the way Harry puts his hand on the other man’s chest almost seems like a pushing or blocking gesture.”
“They look like they’re shaking hands after all this ‘playful’ behavior, but Harry’s not used to having his outstretched hand hanging.”
Speaking to Daily Express US, lip reader Nicola Hickling said the meeting was cordial.
According to his account, Harry said “Hey” at the opening and Lee responded, “Hey, are you from the Spurs or the Knicks, mate?” It made him ask. “Team Knicks are here,” Harry replied, and Lee made a clear sign of approval.
This event happened to King III. It coincided with Charles’ official birthday, the Colored Troop Parade in London, which both Harry and Markle chose not to attend.
The couple has not appeared at the event since June 2022.
