The time-honored maritime tradition took place onboard Sun Princess in the all-new Princess Arena and Waddingham, alongside the ship’s Captain Craig Street, joyously pronounced, “I name this ship Sun Princess. May God bless her and all who sail on her.” She then released the celebratory bottle of Champagne to smash against the ship wishing good fortune to all of the ship’s guests and crew sailing to incredible destinations all over the world.
“Hannah is globally admired and adored for her immense talent and determination. Those qualities coupled with her family’s deep connection and love for the sea make her the perfect godmother for our sensational new Sun Princess,” said John Padgett, Princess Cruises president. “We are honored that she has joined us for this pinnacle moment, and that she will remain a treasured part of the ship’s legacy forever.”
Waddingham, renowned for her beloved portrayal of Rebecca Welton in “Ted Lasso,” expressed that being chosen as the godmother for Sun Princess was a surreal moment for her. She feels honored to join a prestigious group of women, including members of the Royal Family, who have also taken on godmother roles for Princess ships. These luminaries include Diana, Princess of Wales (Royal Princess, 1984); Kate Middleton, Princess of Wales (Royal Princess, 2013); Audrey Hepburn (Star Princess, 1989); Sophia Loren (Crown Princess, 1990); Martha Stewart (Crown Princess, 2006), alongside numerous other renowned celebrities and dignitaries.
Waddingham’s deep connection to boating stems from her upbringing, where she cherished weekends spent in Dunkirk. Furthermore, her family history is intertwined with naval service, as her grandfather served in the Royal Navy during World War II.
“As much as theatre has always rippled through my bloodstream so too has a strong, historic familial connection with the Royal Navy and all things nautical,” said Waddingham. “I have of course seen over the years the iconic godmothers who have been asked to represent these magnificent ships and looked on in awe. It is therefore such a great privilege to have been asked to act as Godmother to the Sun Princess, first of her class. I can’t quite believe it.”
Actor and magician Michael Carbonaro took the helm as the event’s master of ceremonies, accompanied by a star-studded lineup of celebrities and TV personalities such as Tyra Banks, Romero Britto, Randy Fenoli, Jeff Corwin, Rob Floyd, renowned chefs Dario Cecchini and Makoto Okuwa, and the cherished original cast members of “Love Boat” – Jill Whelan (Vicki Stubing), Ted Lange (Isaac), and Bernie Kopell (Doc).
Adding to the excitement, Natasha Bedingfield graced the occasion with her performance of the chart-topping hit “Pocket Full of Sunshine” and other acclaimed songs like “Unwritten.”
Tags: Cruises News, Hannah Waddingham as Godmother, Luxury Cruise, Port of Barcelona, Sun Princess, John Padgett, Princess Cruises
