Norwegian Royal Family Faces Dual Crises Amid Legal and Controversial Revelations

Norway's royal family is currently navigating two significant challenges that have drawn national and international attention. Marius Borg Høiby, the 29-year-old son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, has been indicted on 38 charges, including four counts of rape, domestic violence, and drug-related offenses. The trial commenced on February 3, 2026, at the Oslo District Court, where Høiby pleaded not guilty to the most serious charges but admitted to some lesser offenses. The proceedings are expected to continue until March 19, 2026.

In a separate development, Crown Princess Mette-Marit has come under scrutiny following the release of documents detailing her past association with the late Jeffrey Epstein. The documents reveal extensive contact between the Crown Princess and Epstein between 2011 and 2014, including multiple meetings and communications. In response, Mette-Marit issued a public apology, expressing regret for her association with Epstein and acknowledging the disappointment caused to her family and the public.

These concurrent issues have impacted the public perception of the Norwegian monarchy. Recent polls indicate a decline in support for the royal family, with a notable decrease in the percentage of Norwegians favoring the continuation of the monarchy. The royal household has refrained from commenting further on these matters, emphasizing that the legal proceedings are ongoing and that the Crown Princess has addressed the concerns regarding her past associations.