Tom Cruise breaks royal protocol with Kate Middleton in London as William stands by

Being a gentleman can get complicated when you’re an American navigating royal protocol on British soil. Tom Cruise found himself in that situation once again when he met Kate Middleton at the London premiere of Digger. As Alejandro González Iñárritu, Prince William, Princess Catherine and Cruise made their way down a flight of stairs, the Hollywood star didn’t hesitate to take Kate’s hand to help her descend. The princess accepted the gesture, but royal protocol dictates that guests should not initiate physical contact with members of the royal family unless they offer their hand first. While Cruise’s gesture was intended as an act of courtesy, Prince William did not offer his wife the same assistance, following the rules of royal etiquette. The moment sparked criticism from people who questioned William’s lack of chivalry, although the protocol surrounding physical contact with royals continues to surprise many.