The emoji moment that got everyone talking

Back in 2023, William and Kate appeared on BBC Radio 1 to mark World Mental Health Day. The conversation was light, relaxed, and playful, until the topic shifted to emojis.

When asked about his favourite emoji, William hesitated for a split second before jokingly admitting he had been advised not to mention the aubergine.

“Is this a clean thing or a family one?” he laughed. “I’ve been told not to say the aubergine, so I’ve got to pick something else.”

He then chose a safer alternative, describing the face with shifting eyes and a tongue sticking out. The remark immediately sparked laughter in the studio.

Host Vick Hope wasted no time teasing her co presenter, joking that William’s humour rivalled anything previously said on the show.

Kate’s response and a glimpse into home life

Kate, meanwhile, kept things sweet and simple. She revealed her go to emoji combination was the heart followed by the crying laughing face.

“It’s the sort of hysterical laughing when things have gone wrong,” she explained.

The conversation soon drifted into family territory, offering listeners a rare insight into the couple’s everyday routines.

Asked about favourite meals, Kate mentioned curry, teriyaki, and salmon. William responded with mock protest, admitting he struggles with spicy food.

“I can’t do too much spice,” he confessed. “I start sweating. It’s not attractive.”

Kate, clearly amused, noted that she has to introduce heat gradually.

A joke revisited years later

The playful emoji moment resurfaced in 2025 when William crossed paths with Vick Hope once again.

During a light hearted exchange on the set of Clarkson’s Farm, Vick cheekily reminded him of his infamous aubergine comment.

William laughed instantly.

“Yes,” he replied. “Thank you for reminding me about that. It felt like the environment to do it, not for today maybe.”

The quick exchange showed that even years later, the joke still followed him.

William’s recent solo visit abroad

Away from light hearted interviews, William recently undertook a solo visit to Saudi Arabia.

During a stop at MISK Sports City in Riyadh, he met a group of young female footballers. While the athletes were thrilled to see him, their curiosity centred on someone else.

“Did Princess Kate come with you?” they asked.

William gently explained she had not joined the trip, prompting a collective sigh of disappointment.

Trying to lift the mood, he praised their skills and joked about his own children’s love of football.

“My children love football,” he told them. “But you guys are another level.”

The moment blended humour with warmth, something William has become known for during public engagements.