Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s Health Declines
Crown Prince Haakon has shared concerning updates about the health of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who is living with pulmonary fibrosis, a chronic lung disease she first revealed in 2018. Speaking to reporters at a prize ceremony in Oslo, Haakon expressed his worries about her condition, stating:
“The crown princess is seriously ill, and I think she has become considerably worse recently. So I am worried about her health.”
Mette-Marit now requires oxygen therapy in her daily life, which provides some relief. Pulmonary fibrosis involves scarring in the lungs, making it increasingly difficult for her to breathe and reducing the body’s ability to absorb oxygen.
Increased Visibility of Her Condition
There have been growing concerns as Mette-Marit’s public appearances have become more limited. Reports indicate that she left Norway’s Constitution Day celebration at Skaugum on May 15 after only 15 minutes. She has also been seen using oxygen tubes, drawing attention to her worsening health.
In December 2025, Mette-Marit told NRK that a lung transplant could eventually be necessary. She said:
“We have always known with this illness that this is how it develops. But I think it happened a little faster than I had imagined and hoped.”
When asked if she could soon be placed on a transplant list, Haakon emphasized that the decision would be made by medical professionals. He described it as a medical question and said specialists would determine when the time was right.
Addressing Past Contact with Jeffrey Epstein
At the same press meeting, Haakon also addressed Mette-Marit’s past contact with Jeffrey Epstein. According to NRK, documents related to Epstein showed broader contact than previously known. The Norwegian broadcaster reported that Mette-Marit first met Epstein in 2011, after his conviction in the United States.
An email from Mette-Marit was cited, in which she wrote: “Googled u after last email. Agree didn’t look too good :)” She has stated that she does not remember what the message referred to and that she did not understand the seriousness of Epstein’s crimes until 2019.
The Florida Episode
Mette-Marit has previously described an uncomfortable episode at Epstein’s home in Florida, though she has not publicly detailed what happened. Haakon mentioned that there were situations where she felt Epstein may not have wanted her well. He added that others also warned her that Epstein was not a good person.
He said she called him after the Florida episode, but they did not see it as serious enough to contact police security. Haakon also confirmed that he knew she remained in contact with Epstein afterwards.
Mette-Marit has since said she ended the relationship and felt manipulated and deceived. Haakon noted that the family must review routines but also warned against becoming overly suspicious or judgmental without basis.
Ongoing Concerns and Public Interest
The royal family’s situation continues to draw public interest, with many following the developments closely. As Mette-Marit’s health remains a concern, the focus is on the medical care she receives and the support she gets from her family.
The family’s approach to handling these challenges reflects their commitment to transparency and the well-being of their loved ones. While the past with Epstein raises questions, the current focus is on ensuring Mette-Marit receives the best possible care and support.
