Queen Margrethe II of Denmark Hospitalized After Suspected Heart Attack
Queen Margrethe II of Denmark has been admitted to the hospital following a suspected heart attack, according to a statement from the Royal House. The 84-year-old monarch, who stepped down as head of state in 2024 to allow her son, King Frederik X, to take the throne, will remain in the hospital over the weekend for further tests and monitoring. The palace has confirmed that she is “tired, but in good spirits.”
The news has caused concern among the royal family, although there is now relief that the situation is not as severe as initially feared. A palace insider shared with Woman’s Day that the queen experienced an angina attack, which was initially mistaken for something more serious. “Thankfully, Margrethe is said to be ‘doing well’ and it’s possible she could be home after a few days of observation,” the source said. “She might look frail, but she’s tough as nails.”
The timing of the incident has been particularly challenging for King Frederik X. Thursday marked his and Queen Mary’s 22nd wedding anniversary, and the king is reportedly relying heavily on his mother’s guidance as he adjusts to his new role. “Frederik is beside himself and lit up with joy when the news wasn’t dire,” the source added. “He’s still feeling his way as King with all kinds of unprecedented political challenges, like fighting over Greenland! He can’t bear to lose his mum’s sage advice now when he needs her most.”
Queen Mary has remained a steady presence during this time, despite her own personal grief. She is still mourning the loss of her father, John Donaldson, who passed away at the age of 84 in Hobart last month. “Having just gone through her own loss, Mary’s the calm amid the storm, keeping her children, Joachim and Marie in the loop, while giving Frederik the space to focus on his mum,” the source said.
The couple has also been praised for their swift response to the queen’s illness. “Frederik might be worried sick about her, but he and Mary should be commended. Everyone acted quickly and got her the help she needed in a timely manner,” the source added.
Those close to the royal family have highlighted the deep affection the entire household has for Queen Margrethe. “This might not be the first time they’ve had a scare with Margrethe, nor will it be the last, but she’s a treasure to everyone in that household,” the source said. “But no one more than the King, who worships his extremely proud mum.”
