Isak Dreyer on Trial in Sweden for Illegal Bear Hunting

Isak Dreyer, known for hosting the Norwegian reality show “Norway’s Toughest,” is facing trial in Östersund District Court, Sweden, starting Monday, March 16, 2026, for alleged violations of Swedish hunting laws. The charges stem from a bear hunt that took place on October 3, 2023, in the Djupdalen and Västerkälen areas of Jämtland county.

The Allegations

Dreyer and five other hunters, including four Norwegians and one Swede, were licensed to hunt bear in the region. According to reports, the hunting party encountered a female bear (a “binne”) with three cubs. Hunting bears with cubs, or the cubs themselves, is illegal in Sweden. A bear and one of its cubs were killed during the hunt, leading to the indictment.

Dreyer’s Defense

Dreyer maintains his innocence, stating he did not shoot either the bear or the cub. He claims he believed the cub had been killed by a dog within the hunting party. In a statement on Instagram, Dreyer said, “What went wrong was that a dog took a smaller bear, otherwise nothing.” He also stated he did not hear any gunshots and therefore assumed the dog was responsible.

Evidence Presented

Swedish police have gathered evidence including photographs and videos from the hunters’ mobile phones. Evidence includes images allegedly showing Dreyer with the killed bear cub and a video of him dragging the cub through the woods. Police also found the skin of the bear cub at Dreyer’s home.

Public Reaction and NRK’s Response

The case sparked significant public outcry, with NRK, the Norwegian public broadcaster where Dreyer hosts “Norway’s Toughest,” receiving over 1,000 complaints after the indictment became public. NRK has put on hold any new hunting-related program proposals involving Dreyer pending the outcome of the trial. However, his role on “Norway’s Toughest” has not been affected, as the program focuses on physical and mental endurance rather than hunting.

Viaplay’s Position

Dreyer also appears in the Viaplay series “Adventurous Renovation.” Viaplay has stated that, as of now, the trial will not impact the airing of the series.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

Dreyer’s lawyer, Sven Severin, has stated that Dreyer denies any wrongdoing. The trial will determine whether Dreyer and the other hunters violated Swedish hunting laws. The case is being closely watched, given Dreyer’s public profile and the sensitive nature of the charges.