“What is he doing?”: David Beckham’s Playful Kiss with Daughter Harper Recalls Decade-Old Debate

It’s a moment that has sparked conversation before—and once again, David Beckham and his daughter Harper have found themselves at the center of attention. Ten years ago, the football icon publicly defended himself against a wave of criticism for kissing his then-young daughter on the lips, insisting it was a natural expression of affection between parent and child. Fast forward to Thursday night, at the glitzy Hugo Boss launch party in London, and the father-daughter duo provided a new, lighthearted twist on that same theme.

A Family Affair at Hugo Boss

The launch event for Beckham’s new bodywear collection with BOSS at Lightroom, London, was a family celebration. The 49-year-old sports legend was joined by his wife Victoria, 50, and their children—Romeo, 22, Cruz, 19, and, of course, Harper, now 13. The Beckhams, known for their close-knit family dynamic, posed for photos and mingled with guests, but it was a candid moment on the dance floor that drew the most attention.

A Playful Exchange on the Dance Floor

As the music played, David, ever the doting father, leaned in with a playful pout, attempting to plant a kiss on Harper’s lips. But the teenager, now at an age where public displays of affection from parents can be a source of embarrassment, leaned back with a smile, skillfully dodging her dad’s efforts.

The exchange was filled with laughter, as David made another gentle attempt. This time, Harper, grinning, offered her cheek instead—prompting her father to give her a warm kiss there. The moment was captured by photographers and quickly made the rounds on social media, with many noting how the playful scene was a far cry from the controversy that once surrounded their family.

A Decade-Old Debate Revisited

Back in 2014, David Beckham faced an unexpected backlash after sharing a photo of himself kissing young Harper on the lips. Critics questioned whether such displays were appropriate, but Beckham was steadfast in his response. “I kiss all my kids on the lips,” he told the press at the time. “It’s how I was brought up and Victoria was brought up, and it’s how we are with our children. We want to show our kids love, and you know, we protect them, look after them, and support them.”

His comments resonated with many parents who saw nothing unusual in expressing affection this way. Yet, the debate lingered, with opinions divided on social media and in parenting forums.

From Controversy to Comedy

The scene at Thursday’s launch party feels like a full-circle moment—one that shows how family bonds evolve as children grow up. Harper’s playful reluctance and David’s good-natured persistence highlight the changing dynamics between parents and teenagers, as well as the enduring affection that remains at the heart of the Beckham family.

For many observers, the moment was endearing, a glimpse into the real-life relationship between a world-famous father and his daughter. It also served as a gentle reminder that, regardless of public scrutiny, the Beckhams continue to prioritize love and laughter within their family.

A Heartwarming Contrast

Ultimately, the dance floor exchange was a stark contrast to the heated debates of the past. Instead of controversy, there was comedy; instead of criticism, there was connection. As Harper grows into her teenage years, it’s clear that the Beckhams’ family bond remains as strong—and as loving—as ever.