Queen Mette-Marit of Norway marked her return to public life on September 9, 2026, by attending the state funeral of her late father-in-law, King Harald, despite her ongoing health challenges. The service took place at Oslo Cathedral, attended by various world leaders and dignitaries alongside the Norwegian royal family.
King Harald’s passing on August 28 prompted a significant gathering of royals and government officials. The ceremony was led by the newly crowned King Haakon, joined by his two children, Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus. Queen Sonja, the late king’s widow, was also present, flanked by family members including Princess Märtha Louise and her daughters.
Queen Mette-Marit, aged 53, had been hospitalised just the previous week after undergoing a lung transplant in June. This marked a significant health journey for the Queen, who has been living with chronic pulmonary fibrosis—a condition that requires considerable medical attention. Before her surgery, Mette-Marit was often seen using a nasal cannula during public appearances.
Her son, Marius Borg Høiby, aged 29, was able to attend the funeral despite being under house arrest for past legal issues, including convictions for rape. Høiby was previously granted permission to visit King Harald prior to his death, and he participated in the procession of the late monarch’s casket through the Royal Palace.
The funeral procession was a poignant moment, with Queen Mette-Marit and Queen Sonja travelling together in a royal car. The atmosphere was somber yet filled with respect as members of the royal family paid their last respects to King Harald, who had played a pivotal role in Norway’s history.
Following the lung transplant, Queen Mette-Marit has faced several health complications, which have led to her being somewhat withdrawn from public commitments. Notably, she missed a memorial service for King Harald a few days earlier. Reports indicate that after her surgery, there were periods when her health required careful monitoring, especially as she adjusted to her recovery.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit was also absent from the swearing-in ceremony for King Haakon and Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra on September 1, leading to speculation regarding her health. A pulmonologist later revealed that her absence was due to complications arising post-transplant, underscoring the challenges she is currently navigating in her recovery process.
Queen Mette-Marit’s health concerns are not unique among royals at this time, as evidenced by Queen Margrethe of Denmark also missing the funeral after being hospitalised. The 86-year-old monarch has faced health issues this year, including a recent hospital admission for a blood clot and dehydration. She was unable to attend the ceremony, but her son, King Frederik, represented her at the funeral alongside other family members.
As tributes pour in for King Harald, the royal family is certainly under immense pressure, dealing with personal loss while managing ongoing health crises. Queen Mette-Marit’s presence at such a significant event speaks to her resilience and dedication to her royal duties, even amidst personal challenges.
In these prevailing circumstances, the royal family continues to embody a sense of unity and strength, as they navigate their responsibilities while supporting each other through their respective health journeys. Queen Mette-Marit’s commitment to stand beside her family during this solemn occasion is commendable, reflecting both her personal courage and the enduring nature of the Norwegian monarchy.