Prince William reveals grief at Queen’s death – but stands dutifully behind new king, body language reveals

PRINCE William “displayed signs of his grief” at the Queen’s death as he stood behind his father King Charles being declared Monarch today.

Body language expert Judi James said Charles appeared “assured” and “confident”, while Prince William looked “dutiful.”

Judi added that the Duke of Cornwall and Cambridge showed his support to the new King by “mirroring” his body language during the ceremony.

The expert told The Sun Online: “Charles’s body language has changed overnight from the vulnerable, emotional and tearful man yesterday to a confident, assured and much more powerful looking King today.

“His support and back up came from his son and wife standing dutifully behind him.

“Their mirrored poses signalled they would now be working as a like-minded team, while William’s expression was still primarily one of grief, with his steepled brows and pained expression when the funeral was mentioned.”

King Charles III today vowed to follow the Queen’s “inspiring example” as he was formally declared Monarch in an historic Accession ceremony.

The royal automatically became King following the tragic death of his mother on Thursday but his role has been confirmed this morning.

A ceremony was carried out by the Accession Council at St James’ Palace, which was not attended by King Charles III, in line with tradition.

He then later entered the throne room where he vowed to follow the Queen’s “inspiring example” in front of Prince William and Queen Camilla.

The King said: “I know how deeply you, the entire Nation – and I think I may say the whole world – sympathise with me in the irreparable loss we have all suffered.

“It is the greatest consolation to me to know of the sympathy expressed by so many to my Sister and Brothers and that such overwhelming affection and support should be extended to our whole family in our loss.

“To all of us as a family, as to this kingdom and the wider family of nations of which it is a part, my Mother gave an example of lifelong love and of selfless service.

“My Mother’s reign was unequalled in its duration, its dedication and its devotion. Even as we grieve, we give thanks for this most faithful life.”

King Charles also approved an order that the day of the Queen’s funeral, which is yet to be decided, will .

Prince William earlier signed the proclamation to formally make him King.

It is the first time he has been seen in public since his grandmother’s death.

The King also praised his “beloved” wife, Queen Consort Camilla, who also added her name to the historic document.

A cheer of “God Save the King” was given during the first-ever televised Accession ceremony.

The formalities come after King Charles last night pledged to follow his “darling mama’s” life of service in his first address to the nation.

He also spoke of his “profound sorrow” at her death and praised the “affection, admiration and respect” the Queen inspired that “became the hallmark of her reign”.

He shook hands with well-wishers as he begun his first day as the nation’s monarch after a 70-year wait for the throne.

One over-eager supporter even gave the King a kiss on the cheek in a breach of protocol.

He then poignantly visited the sea of flowers left for his mum and paused for a moment of silent reflection.