Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit's interview with NRK marks a defining moment for their reign. Ever since the U.S. Department of Justice released files linking Jeffrey Epstein to the Crown Princess, the public had been waiting for answers. Those explanations came seven weeks later, as the trial of Marius Borg Høiby was submitted for judgment in Oslo District Court.
© NRKDuring that period of silence, questions grew about the future of the royal family, particularly of Mette-Marit’s role when Haakon eventually becomes king. The Prince is putting those doubts to rest; Mette-Marit is not going anywhere.
The couple spoke from their official residence in Skaugum, hours after the judge closed proceedings on Marius Borg’s case. Although Mette-Marit took center stage to address her connection with Epstein, Haakon made a point of standing firmly by her side, holding her hand throughout the 20-minute interview.
“I think it’s meaningful to reflect on the foundation the Crown Princess and I have built,” Haakon said, as translated by our sister website HOLA! Spain. “We stand on something strong. We’ve been together for over 25 years, and we’ve built it in a way that keeps us united. When you marry, it’s for better and for worse.”
© NRK“On the good days, everything feels easy. But it’s during the difficult times, when you have to weather the storm, that a strong foundation matters most. This is our project; we’re in it together. And Mette is caring, wise, and very strong. That’s why I always want her on my team when challenges arise.”
His support comes despite declining public approval for Mette-Marit following the Epstein revelations and her son’s legal case. While King Harald and Queen Sonja have maintained popularity, concern has grown around the future of the monarchy and the next generation.
Mette-Marit acknowledged the impact on the royal family and reiterated her apology to Harald V and Sonja. “I have enormous respect for them and their work, which is why it was important for me to apologize,” she said. “They are the most wonderful in-laws and have supported me greatly throughout this process. I’m very grateful.”
Will Mette-Marit's health get in the way of her service?
© STIAN LYSBERG SOLUMThe interview also addressed the question many in Norway have been asking: Does she still have the motivation and the capacity to fulfill her role?
“I live with a serious illness, and it defines my daily life,” she said. “It determines whether I can carry out my duties. But I strongly believe in the importance of the monarchy in Norway. I truly hope this will not weaken that trust over time—that would be very sad for me.”
She then shared both her commitment and uncertainty about the future. “Haakon is the person I respect most in the world. I have great faith in him. So yes, I want to stand by his side in that project if my health allows it.”
With that, Mette-Marit made it clear that her intent is to one day serve as queen, even if she might pull back due to her health. For now, it appears that much of the institutional weight will fall on Haakon and their daughter, Princess Ingrid, with Mette-Marit maintaining a more limited public role focused on key engagements.
© LISE AASERUD
