In recent weeks, Prince Nikolai of Denmark, now Count of Monpezat, has become one of Europe’s most talked-about young royals. Much of that attention has been fueled by his new documentary series, in which he opens up about some of the defining moments of his life, from losing his royal title at his grandmother Queen Margrethe II’s decision to launching a successful modeling career.
Now, however, he’s making headlines for a much more personal reason, an affectionate show of support for his longtime girlfriend, Benedikte, as she walked one of Copenhagen Fashion Week’s most anticipated runways.
© Nina FranovaCount Nikolai’s sweetest tribute yet
Copenhagen Fashion Week is officially underway, making it one of the most important events of the year for the couple, whose lives have long revolved around fashion, modeling, and beauty. Count Nikolai and Benedikte, who have been together for more than eight years, have both built careers in the industry. Nikolai made history as the first member of the Danish royal family to walk a professional runway, a move that reshaped expectations for modern royalty, and this week he delivered one of his most romantic gestures yet.
"First and foremost, I’m here to support her,” Prince Joachim’s eldest son said as he arrived in downtown Copenhagen to watch Benedikte take the runway. His presence made him one of the most devoted and proudest spectators at Copenhagen Fashion Week. While it wasn’t the first time Benedikte had modeled at one of the world’s leading fashion events, the couple rarely manage to attend these moments together, whether because of conflicting schedules or other commitments. That made his public show of support all the more meaningful.
© Don ArnoldTheir love story
Nikolai and Benedikte’s relationship has endured not only because of their deep affection for one another but also because of the passions they share and the strong connection they’ve built over the years.
Their romance began in 2018, around the same time Nikolai surprised many by stepping away from the military training traditionally undertaken by members of the Danish royal family. Choosing a different path, he pursued one of his lifelong dreams, modeling. After signing with Denmark’s Scoop Models agency, he launched a career that quickly led to major advertising campaigns, magazine editorials, and international runway shows.
Benedikte has been by his side since the very beginning. As she previously told HOLA!, the two have been together since their teenage years. “I spent my childhood in Jutland with my family until I was 15, then I moved to a boarding school where I met my boyfriend, and now we live together!” she shared.
© Matt JelonekAdding, “Our story began at boarding school. We had the same classes, and for the first year and a half we were just friends. I always thought he was incredibly funny, and I admired how intelligent he was.”
Their relationship has only grown stronger over the years, and now they’re celebrating another milestone together at Copenhagen Fashion Week.
Royal titles removed
On January 1st, 2023, Queen Margrethe II’s changes to the Danish monarchy officially took effect. In a historic announcement, the queen removed the titles of Prince Joachim’s children, a move that initially created tensions within the royal family. “The titles of prince and princess that they have held until now will be discontinued,” the palace announced.
Although the decision caused a temporary rift within the family, time helped ease those tensions. In his recent documentary, Count Nikolai reflected candidly on that pivotal chapter in both his personal life and the evolution of the Danish monarchy. “Both my life and the role I used to have have changed. A decision was made on my behalf, and that’s never pleasant, of course,” he said of his grandmother’s decision.
© Julian ParkerRather than dwell on what he once described as an “exile," Nikolai has chosen to focus on the future. “Like everything in life, I try to make the best of it and see things from a positive perspective. Right now, I’m figuring out my own path in life, with the role and circumstances I have.”
Now free from the expectations of royal life, he is fully committed to his career in fashion, and appears to be entering a new chapter and life alongside Benedikte. Together, they’re writing their own story with confidence, style, and determination, far from the shadow of the monarchy.
