King Harald V of Norway has died at the age of 89, bringing more than three decades of his reign to an end and triggering a major change for the Norwegian royal family. The news was announced live on Good Morning Britain by presenter Ranvir Singh on Friday, August 28.
King died peacefully at Oslo University Hospital
The Norwegian Royal Palace later confirmed that Harald had died peacefully at Oslo University Hospital at 6.35am on Friday, August 28. His death came after the King had spent time in hospital following a serious deterioration in his health, with his condition described as extremely serious just a day before his death.
Harald had been Norway's king since 1991, when he succeeded his father, King Olav V. His death marks not only the end of one royal reign but also the beginning of a completely new chapter for the Norwegian monarchy.
Norway already has a new king
Following Harald's death, his son Crown Prince Haakon has succeeded him as monarch. Haakon, 53, had increasingly stepped into the spotlight in recent years as his father's health became more fragile, and he had already acted as regent on a number of occasions. He is expected to reign as King Haakon VIII.
The succession does not stop there. Haakon's eldest child, Princess Ingrid Alexandra, now becomes the heir to the Norwegian throne. The 22-year-old has spent much of her life being prepared for a future role at the heart of the Norwegian royal family.
Harald's reign was far from traditional
Harald became one of Europe's most recognisable monarchs during his 35 years on the throne. He was regarded as a more relaxed and modern royal figure, helping to move Norway's monarchy away from some of its more traditional image.
His own love story was once considered controversial. Harald wanted to marry Sonja Haraldsen, a commoner he had been in a relationship with for years. The couple eventually married in 1968 after a lengthy courtship, and their relationship later became one of the defining royal romances in Norway.
The King was also known for his emotional connection with the Norwegian public. During times of tragedy, he frequently stepped forward as a figure of comfort and unity. Following the 2011 terrorist attacks in Norway, Harald delivered an emotional speech in which he called for a more open and tolerant country. His popularity remained strong throughout much of his reign.
A royal family facing a new era
Harald's death comes at a difficult moment for the Norwegian monarchy, with the wider royal family having faced controversy and increased scrutiny in recent years. For Norway, Friday's announcement is primarily the end of an era, as the country has lost a king who spent more than 30 years representing it at home and abroad. Flags were lowered following the announcement as Norway began preparations to mourn its late monarch.
