Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway is facing serious health challenges, as disclosed by her husband, Crown Prince Haakon. The Crown Prince shared his concerns during a public appearance on 26 May, revealing that the 52-year-old Princess’s condition has worsened since her diagnosis of chronic pulmonary fibrosis in 2018. He expressed his worries by stating, “The Crown Princess is seriously ill, and I think she has gotten a bit worse lately.”
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Chronic pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive lung disease that affects respiration, and the Crown Princess has been seen using an oxygen tube during recent engagements. This chronic illness’s impact on her health has not gone unnoticed, with Crown Prince Haakon acknowledging the fluctuating nature of her condition. “These six months have gone pretty well, I think. But there are different phases,” he remarked, indicating the ongoing struggle to manage her health, which is under the supervision of medical professionals.
In response to questions about whether the Crown Princess might be placed on a lung transplant list, Crown Prince Haakon indicated that the decision rests with the medical team. “It’s a medical question. So they’re the ones who decide when it should happen, when it’s right,” he explained, lamenting the deterioration of his wife’s health in recent months.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who married Crown Prince Haakon in 2001, is the mother of two children, Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus, as well as Marius Borg Høiby, her son from a previous relationship. The family has faced additional pressures this year, particularly surrounding Høiby’s legal troubles. In January, he was indicted on multiple charges, including rape and filming without consent, with a total of 38 allegations brought forward by various women.
Speculation surrounding Høiby’s situation has escalated following a decision by the Norwegian Supreme Court on 3 June, which denied his request to live at the royal residence while awaiting sentencing scheduled for mid-June. Crown Prince Haakon, addressing the case earlier this year, expressed empathy for the affected individuals, acknowledging the trial’s emotional toll on many families involved, including his own.
Adding to her trials, Crown Princess Mette-Marit made headlines earlier this year when she publicly addressed her connection to the late Jeffrey Epstein, as her name appeared in files released by the U.S. Department of Justice. In a tearful interview with NRK, she categorically denied any wrongdoing, emphasising that she felt deceived and manipulated during her past interactions with Epstein. “It is incredibly important for me to take responsibility for not checking his background more carefully,” she stated.
The royal family has continued to grapple with health issues, with Crown Prince Haakon’s parents, King Harald and Queen Sonja, both experiencing significant medical problems this year. Queen Sonja had to cancel her engagements following episodes of heart fibrillation and has undergone multiple medical procedures, including the installation of a pacemaker. King Harald’s health has also been challenged, with previous surgeries and recent hospitalisations due to infections.
As Crown Prince Haakon temporarily took on regent duties during his father’s medical absences, discussions on succession have been ignited. However, King Harald has made it clear that he has no immediate plans to step down from his role as monarch. “I have taken an oath to the Storting, and it lasts for life,” the King stated, reaffirming his commitment to his royal duties.
The challenges faced by the Norwegian royal family illustrate the complexity of public life intertwined with private struggles. As the royal couple navigates these hardships, public support remains a vital aspect of their journey. Updates regarding Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s health and the ongoing legal situation concerning Marius Borg Høiby are closely followed by both the media and the public, reflecting widespread concern for the wellbeing of the royal family.