Meghan Markle imposes ‘hands-off’ rule on Harry after Gala gaffe

But what should have been a lovely celebratory moment quickly turned awkward after cameras captured Harry patting Meghan’s bum on the red carpet – a move that insiders said left her ‘deeply embarrassed’.

A source close to the couple said: “Meghan was absolutely humiliated. She is very aware of how every detail is picked apart, and that moment made her feel like a spectacle. She told Harry afterwards that there is a time and place for affection – and the red carpet is not it. She has made it clear that such public displays are off-limits from now on.”

The couple, who have been married for seven years, are known for holding hands or exchanging glances during public engagements.

But Harry’s playful pat on the back — which seemed to take Markle by surprise — sparked a flood of online commentary and memes on social media.

Insiders say the Duchess was angry that what she saw as a “foolish, thoughtless gesture” overshadowed their philanthropic work.

“Meghan pays a lot of attention to how they are perceived at these events,” said another insider. “Everything from the styling to the speeches is planned with precision. So when Harry did that, she felt it undermined the professionalism she was trying to convey. She doesn’t want to come across as the giggling plus-one; she’s trying to build her credibility as a serious figure in philanthropy and business.”

Observers noted that after Harry’s gesture, Markle appeared to subtly place his hand higher on her hip and whisper something in his ear before both smiled at the photographers.

Later that evening, the couple displayed a more formal demeanor on stage as they accepted their awards.

Harry, dressed in a black suit and tie, and Meghan, in a minimalist black Armani suit and gold jewelry, were praised for their coordinated looks — but tensions simmered behind the scenes.

“She told friends she likes Harry’s spontaneity but he needs to read the room,” said one friend. “She doesn’t want to embarrass him, but she also doesn’t want him to turn a serious occasion into gossip fodder.”

The incident came amid renewed scrutiny over the couple’s public image after a mixed reception to Markle’s lifestyle brand As Ever and Harry’s recent short solo visit to Britain.

Palace insiders have privately expressed concerns about the couple’s “California casualness” sometimes clashing with their efforts to maintain royal gravitas.

A source familiar with the Sussexes’ team said: “A real effort has been made to polish their public image and keep things under control. Meghan has set some ground rules: she’s fine with affection, but not when it threatens to become headline-grabbing. Harry means well, but she’s determined to keep things professional, especially when the cameras are rolling.”

While the couple’s relationship remains strong, those close to them say Markle is taking control of their image more firmly than ever – and putting Harry on a “tighter leash than ever.”

An insider said: “Meghan is extremely protective of their reputation. After the charity gala she made it clear: no more hands on her bum for the world to see!”