Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has experienced a decline in her health, which has led to her withdrawal from upcoming official engagements, including a state visit from Belgium scheduled for the coming week. The Norwegian Royal House has confirmed that she has not made a public appearance since January 28, further highlighting concerns around her condition.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/crown-princess-mette-marit-international-library-of-fashion-research-oslo-030625-9273caf77da64158a7bb6e5a31afe60e.jpg)
Mette-Marit, who has been living with chronic pulmonary fibrosis since her diagnosis in 2018, is currently not on the programme for the scheduled state visit due to “deterioration” in her health. Guri Varpe, the head of communications for the Norwegian Royal Palace, mentioned the evolution of her health situation when speaking to Norwegian broadcaster NRK. The visit will feature various ceremonial events, with Crown Prince Haakon set to attend most of the proceedings alone.
Chronic pulmonary fibrosis is a serious lung condition characterised by scarring of lung tissue, which progressively impairs lung function. The illness is known for its escalating nature and currently has no cure. Earlier this month, Varpe indicated that Mette-Marit’s health had taken a “negative turn,” and discussions have begun regarding the potential need for a lung transplant. She has been advised to follow a regimen of tailored exercise, rest, and recovery to better manage her condition.
The Royal Palace first disclosed the seriousness of Mette-Marit’s health challenges in a statement released in December 2025. This official note stated that ongoing tests indicated a significant decline in her wellbeing. In an effort to combat her difficulties, the Crown Princess had previously taken time away in October for pulmonary rehabilitation, reflecting her need for additional support in daily activities.
Adding to her personal challenges, Mette-Marit is also facing distress on the family front. Her son, Marius Borg Høiby, is currently in the midst of a trial in Oslo, facing serious charges, including four counts of rape. This legal battle is drawing significant public attention and is expected to reach a conclusion soon, although it may take several months for the judges to deliver a verdict. Marius, from a previous relationship before her marriage to Crown Prince Haakon, does not fulfil a royal role or have any claim to the succession line, and the royal couple have opted not to attend the court proceedings.
In a further complication, Crown Princess Mette-Marit has found herself involved in recent revelations surrounding the late financier Jeffrey Epstein. The U.S. Department of Justice released a trove of documents last month, in which her name appeared over a thousand times. Mette-Marit has since publically expressed remorse regarding her past connections with Epstein, stating that she deeply regrets knowing him.
Following the documents’ release, the royal family issued an official statement where Mette-Marit strongly disavowed Epstein’s behaviour and actions. The statement communicated her deep regret for not recognising the nature of his character sooner. It also emphasised that she is currently in a challenging situation and requested understanding for her need to step back while she gathers her thoughts.
As Crown Princess Mette-Marit continues to navigate her health challenges and the trials within her family, the attention on her situation remains significant. The Norwegian royal household indicated that adjustments to her public duties will continue to reflect her health status, underscoring the importance of care and recovery.
While Crown Prince Haakon strives to fulfil his royal obligations, the absence of Mette-Marit adds a poignant note to the ongoing royal engagements. As their family grapples with both physical and emotional hurdles, the public sentiment largely leans towards support for the Crown Princess during this trying time.
The coming weeks may provide additional updates on her condition and the broader implications for the Norwegian royal family as they navigate these tumultuous circumstances.