Norway's Crown Princess expresses deep regret over friendship with Epstein

Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit has expressed deep regret over her past friendship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In an official statement, she acknowledged the embarrassment caused to the royal family and apologized for disappointing those affected by her association with him.

Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit has publicly admitted regret regarding her past connection with convicted American sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The royal palace released an official statement on Friday confirming that the relationship caused embarrassment to the Norwegian royal family.

Background of the Controversy

Mette-Marit became part of the Norwegian royal family after marrying Crown Prince Haakon in 2001. Recent U.S. Justice Department documents, made public last week, revealed a notably close association between the crown princess and Epstein. The disclosure has sparked public debate in Norway about Mette-Marit's suitability to eventually serve as queen.

Crown Princess Statement

In her official statement, Mette-Marit said: "I deeply regret my friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. It is important for me to apologise to all of those whom I have disappointed. I also regret the situation I have put the royal family in, especially the king and queen." She added that although she wishes she could provide more detailed explanations, she is currently in a "very demanding situation," which makes this difficult. Mette-Marit is 52 years old.

Details from the Released Documents

The documents include correspondence between Mette-Marit and Epstein spanning several years. Notable interactions include:

• In 2011, the crown princess wrote to Epstein that she had "Googled" him and noted that "it didn't look too good," adding a smiling emoji.
• In 2012, Epstein informed Mette-Marit he was in Paris "on (a) wife hunt." She replied that Paris is "good for adultery" and commented that "Scandis (are) better wife material."

It is important to note that inclusion in U.S. Justice Department files does not indicate wrongdoing. Epstein was convicted in 2008 for soliciting a minor for prostitution and died in 2019 while awaiting trial for sex trafficking charges.

Public Reaction

Recent polling in Norway shows a divided public opinion regarding Mette-Marit's future as queen:

• Nearly 50% of Norwegians believe she should not assume the role of queen.
• Less than one-third expressed support for her future as queen.

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store has urged the crown princess to clarify the content of the emails exchanged with Epstein between 2011 and 2014, more than a decade after her marriage.

Additional Pressures on the Crown Princess

The Epstein revelations coincide with other personal and family challenges for Mette-Marit:

• Her 29-year-old son from a previous relationship, Marius Borg Hiby, faces 38 criminal charges, including rape and assault, with a potential sentence of up to 16 years in prison.
• The crown princess suffers from an incurable lung disease, which may require a lung transplant in the future.

Broader Norwegian Connections to Epstein

Other prominent Norwegians have also been linked to Epstein’s network, including:

• Borge Brende, CEO of the World Economic Forum.
• Former Prime Minister Thorbjørn Jagland, who is under investigation for aggravated corruption.

The ongoing revelations have generated extensive media coverage, prompting scrutiny of the Norwegian royal family and raising questions about transparency and public trust.

Sources:

• BBC News
• The Guardian
• The New York Times
• Norway crown princess 'deeply regrets' Epstein friendship