The Crown Princess of Norway has issued a profound public apology for her past friendship with the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. This statement emerges during an exceptionally challenging period for the Norwegian royal family, as her eldest son confronts severe criminal allegations in an ongoing court trial.
Royal Apology and Epstein Connection
Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who is married to Crown Prince Haakon, the heir to the Norwegian throne, was directly implicated following the recent disclosure of the Epstein files. These documents included personal emails exchanged between the princess and Epstein, indicating a friendship that spanned several years.
The Royal House of Norway released an official statement from Mette-Marit, which has been translated into English. In it, she expressed her deepest regret and offered sincere apologies to the Norwegian people and her own family, who have become entangled in this escalating scandal.
Statement from the Palace
The statement from the Crown Princess read: "I would like to express my deepest regret for my friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. It is important for me to apologise to all of you that I have disappointed. Some of the content of the messages between Epstein and me does not represent the person I want to be. I also apologise for the situation that I have put the Royal Family in, especially the King and Queen."
The broader palace statement emphasised her profound remorse regarding the association. It began: "We understand the strong reactions people have to what has emerged in recent days. The Crown Princess strongly disavows Epstein's abuse and criminal acts. She is very sorry for not having understood early enough what kind of person he was."
The palace further explained that the Crown Princess wishes to provide a more detailed account of events but is currently unable to do so due to the immense personal pressure she is under. The statement concluded by requesting public understanding as she requires time to gather herself during this demanding situation.
Concurrent Court Case Involving Her Son
This royal apology coincides with the high-profile trial of Mette-Marit's eldest son, Marius Borg Høiby. The 29-year-old is facing a total of 38 charges in an Oslo court, including allegations of rape, abuse within a close relationship, acts of violence, making death threats, and numerous traffic violations.
The trial commenced on February 3rd and is anticipated to last for a minimum of seven weeks. Despite the trial's significant duration and gravity, Høiby will appear in court without the support of his mother or stepfather, Crown Prince Haakon, who have confirmed they will not attend the legal proceedings.
Royal Family's Position on the Trial
In a statement released prior to the trial's start, the Crown Prince clarified the royal family's stance. He confirmed that official duties would continue as normal and that the family does not intend to comment publicly on the trial itself.
A message posted on the official Norwegian Royal Family website stated: "We are thinking a lot about all the parties involved in this matter. This is something that affects them, their families, those who love them. We care about them. We know that many of you are going through a difficult time right now. At the same time, it is good to know that we live in a state governed by the rule of law. I am sure and have confidence that those responsible for the trial will work to ensure that it is conducted in as orderly, proper and fair a manner as possible."
When Høiby was formally charged in August 2025, State Attorney Sturla Henriksbø emphasised the seriousness of the case. He explicitly stated that Høiby's connection to the royal family should not result in any special treatment or leniency under the law. If convicted on the most severe charges, Høiby could potentially face a prison sentence of up to ten years.
This dual crisis presents an unprecedented challenge for the Norwegian monarchy, intertwining a global scandal involving a notorious financier with deeply personal legal troubles within the royal household. The public statements aim to manage reputational damage while navigating complex familial and legal obligations during a period of intense public scrutiny.
