Duke’s Playful Move Seen as Possible Message to Royal Family Traditions
Prince Harry has once again raised eyebrows with his latest stunt, appearing in a playful promotional video filmed during his visit to a New York tattoo parlour earlier this year. The clip reveals a lighthearted sketch featuring US music star Jelly Roll, who humorously pretends to give Harry his first-ever tattoo.
In the video, Jelly Roll jokes that Harry agreed to get a tattoo as part of a deal for the singer to headline the closing ceremony of the Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025. The Duke of Sussex grimaces as Jelly Roll prepares for the “tattoo,” prompting Harry to clarify, “I came here to ask you to do the Games, not to tattoo me!”
The playful scenario has fueled speculation that the Duke’s actions subtly challenge royal norms. Senior royals traditionally avoid tattoos, making Harry’s stunt appear as a potential message of independence from royal conventions.
Historically, members of the royal family have avoided body modifications, though exceptions exist. Princess Eugenie sports a small tattoo behind her ear, and Lady Amelia Windsor has several tattoos, including a tiger and bear cubs. Even King George V reportedly had tattoos of a dragon and tiger from his time in the Royal Navy in the 1880s.
Jelly Roll’s appearance in the video underscores his role as the headliner for the Invictus Games’ closing ceremony. His banter with Harry added a humorous touch to the promotion of the Games, which Harry founded to support injured veterans through adaptive sports.
While the Duke’s actions may challenge royal traditions, the stunt highlights his continued focus on connecting with audiences in innovative ways, drawing attention to the Games and the positive message they represent.
