Prince Edward is currently on a solo seven-day tour of Canada. His wife Duchess Sophie has remained in the UK.
The Duke of Edinburgh, 61, began his visit on 26 June. He arrived in Prince Edward Island and made several public appearances throughout the day.
Hug from a royal
© GettyWhile attending engagements in Charlottetown, Edward stopped to speak with members of the public. One local resident, Barbara Bernard, approached the royal with an unusual request.
Speaking to reporters (via X), Barbara said: "I asked him if he wanted a hug." She added: "He said 'OK' and gave me one. He was a very good hugger."
Photos of the moment were shared widely online. Fans were quick to praise the royal for his kind and approachable nature.
One user on X wrote: "That's so sweet!" Another said: "How really cute! Nice she got to hug him, he really seems like a warm, charming guy after all so why not!"
A packed schedule
© GettyEdward had a busy day before the heartfelt encounter. He took part in the Atlantic Canada Education Forum at the Shaw Building and later joined a luncheon for young people hosted by the Lieutenant Governor at Government House.
Later, he visited Abegweit First Nation at Scotchfort. The day ended with a formal dinner at Government House.
The Duke is expected to carry out several more engagements across Canada before returning to the UK on 2 July.
Duchess Sophie: 5 top facts
© Victoria Jones/Shutterstock1. PR girl
Sophie built a successful career before marrying Prince Edward. She worked for Capitol Radio and later launched her own public relations agency, RJH Public Relations, which she ran with her business partner for five years.
2. Dog lover
Sophie is a well-known dog lover and is the patron of the Guide Dogs for the Blind Association. In January 2025, she visited the organisation's training centre and had adorable puppy cuddles with a nine-week-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppy.
3. Bahamas proposal
Prince Edward proposed to Sophie after five years of dating during a holiday to the Bahamas in 1998. He presented her with a two-carat oval diamond, flanked with two-heart shaped gemstones.
4. Stepping up
As the Duchess of Edinburgh, Sophie is a full-time working member of the royal family. She has augmented her duties since the Duke and Duchess of Sussex stepped back from royal duties and Prince Andrew relinquished his official roles. Alongside this, she balances being a devoted mum to her two children: Lady Louise Windsor, 21, and James, Earl of Wessex, 17.
5. Princess wedding
Her 1999 wedding to Prince Edward was low-key but still attracted 200 million TV viewers. Her silk dress was adorned with 325,000 crystals and pearls, and her Anthemion tiara was selected from the late Queen’s private jewellery collection.
The hugging moment quickly made headlines. Many royal followers praised Edward's down-to-earth approach and his willingness to connect with members of the public.
One fan commented: "The myth, the prince, the hugger!" Others said it was "a great example of the royal family's human touch."
Where is Duchess Sophie?
© GettyDuchess Sophie has not joined her husband for this tour. She and Edward were last seen together at Royal Ascot earlier this month.
Sophie, 60, is expected to return to public duties in the UK while Edward completes his Canadian visit.
Edward's tour continues this week with planned visits in Nova Scotia and other provinces. He is expected to attend community events, meet with young people, and promote educational and charitable initiatives.
It is his first major solo overseas tour since taking on the Duke of Edinburgh title last year.
