Norway’s King Harald dies leaving stormy succession over crown princess’s Epstein links
King Harald V of Norway has passed away at age 89, triggering the succession of his son, Crown Prince Haakon. The transition occurs amidst public controversy regarding the Crown Princess's past associations with Jeffrey Epstein.
Why it matters
The death of a long-reigning monarch and the subsequent succession crisis could impact the stability and public perception of the Norwegian royal family.
King Harald V addresses a gala dinner at the palace in Oslo in April 2025. King Harald V addresses a gala dinner at the palace in Oslo in April 2025. Norway Norway’s King Harald dies leaving stormy succession over crown princess’s Epstein links Crown Prince Haakon’s wife, Mette-Marit, corresponded with late US sex offender between 2011 and 2014, long after he was convicted
Prefer the Guardian on Google King Harald V of Norway has died at the age of 89, the palace in Oslo has announced, triggering the succession of his son, Haakon, whose wife Mette-Marit’s association with Jeffrey Epstein has sparked fierce recent controversy.
“It is with deep sadness that we announce that His Majesty King Harald passed away today. King Harald passed away peacefully at Oslo University Hospital on Friday, August 28 at 6.35 am,” the palace said in a statement.
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