Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit Addresses Epstein Links as Son’s Trial Concludes

Oslo, Norway – Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has given a highly anticipated interview addressing her contacts with the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The interview, conducted with Crown Prince Haakon, was recorded on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at their residence in Skaugum, and is set to be broadcast by NRK TV on Friday .

Mounting Scrutiny and Previous Apology

The interview comes after weeks of increasing pressure on the Crown Princess to publicly discuss her connections to Epstein, revealed in hundreds of emails released in recent months. She has already issued an apology, admitting to “poor judgement,” but stated she needed time to provide a more detailed explanation . Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre publicly agreed with the assessment of poor judgement, a rare criticism of a royal figure .

Timing Coincides with Son’s Trial Conclusion

The timing of the interview is significant, coinciding with the finish of the seven-week rape trial of her son, Marius Borg Høiby, at Oslo District Court. The trial has garnered considerable public attention in Norway, as Høiby has grown up in the public eye despite not being a member of the royal family . He faces 40 charges, including four counts of rape and serious assault, as well as drug and traffic violations .

Growing Calls for Transparency

Following the release of the Epstein files, the Crown Princess faced increasing calls for transparency. Communications expert Svein Tore Bergestuen stated that the Royal Palace needed to handle the situation differently, especially given her health condition (a lung disease) . Both Crown Prince Haakon and palace communications chief Guri Varpe have expressed the Crown Princess’s regret and desire to explain her involvement .

Public Confidence Waning

Public confidence in the Crown Princess has reportedly declined, with organizations like the Norwegian Girls Choir recommending members sever ties due to the “ongoing unrest” created by the situation . Commentators have emphasized the need for a detailed and truthful account of her relationship with Epstein, including questions about the nature of their connection, her knowledge of his past, and whether she received or ignored advice to distance herself .

Previous Contact Confirmed

The Royal Palace confirmed in 2019 that the Crown Princess stayed at Epstein’s villa in Palm Beach, Florida, in 2013 and subsequently ended contact, stating Epstein had attempted to use their connection against others . Questions remain about the advice she received from the court and security services regarding her association with Epstein.

Interview Awaited

The interview with NRK is expected to address these questions and provide a comprehensive explanation of the Crown Princess’s relationship with Jeffrey Epstein. NRK’s editor, Sofie Gran Aspunvik, stated the news department is finalizing the interview for broadcast .