Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit Apologizes for Contact with Jeffrey Epstein, Faces Scrutiny Amidst Step-Son’s Trial

Oslo, Norway – Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit has issued multiple apologies for her past contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, as newly released documents from the U.S. Department of Justice continue to surface. The apologies arrive amidst a highly publicized rape trial involving her step-son, Marius Borg Høiby, adding to the intense scrutiny faced by the Norwegian royal family.

Epstein Files Reveal Extensive Communication

The U.S. Department of Justice released a trove of documents under the Epstein Files Transparency Act of 2025, revealing over 1,000 documents referencing Crown Princess Mette-Marit. These records, made public in January and February 2026, include direct email correspondence between the Crown Princess and Epstein spanning from late 2011 through at least early 2014, years after his 2008 federal conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor Epstein Exposed. The emails, sent from an address identified as “H.K.H. Kronprinsessen” (Her Royal Highness the Crown Princess), detail a relationship characterized by personal confessions and discussions, according to reports Epstein Exposed.

Initial Response and Subsequent Apologies

Initially, the Palace’s explanation regarding the contact with Epstein suggested it had ceased in 2013. However, this was amended after the release of the DOJ files, with confirmation that dialogue continued into 2014. The Crown Princess initially described the contact as “simply embarrassing” CNN.

In a written statement, Crown Princess Mette-Marit stated, “Jeffrey Epstein himself is responsible for his actions. I must grab responsibility for not checking Epstein’s background better and for not understanding quickly enough what kind of person he was. I am deeply sorry for that, and this is a responsibility I must take. I showed poor judgment, and regret having any contact with Epstein at all.” She also expressed deep sympathy and solidarity with Epstein’s victims CNN.

The Royal House later shared a statement reiterating the Crown Princess’s apology, acknowledging the “strong reactions people have to what has come to light.” The Crown Princess expressed a desire to address the matter in more detail but indicated she needed time to collect herself CNN.

In a further apology, the Crown Princess stated, “It is important for me to say sorry to all of you I have disappointed. Some of the content of the messages between Epstein and me do not represent the person I want to be” CNN.

Crown Prince Haakon Defends Mette-Marit, Focuses on Family

Crown Prince Haakon addressed the press, stating that his wife wished to share more details about her contact with Epstein but was unable to do so at the present time. He emphasized the need for her to have time to gather herself. He also highlighted the family’s current challenges, including the ongoing rape trial of his step-son, Marius Borg Høiby CNN.

“There is a lot happening at once in our family now,” Haakon stated. “The most important thing for me in the last few days is to look after the herd, support Marius in the situation he is in now, look after the other children. And I have to take care of the crown princess. Fortunately, she takes care of me too.”

Høiby’s Trial and Victim Support

Marius Borg Høiby is currently on trial, facing 38 counts including rape and repeated abuse of a former partner. He has pleaded not guilty. The trial is expected to last seven weeks CNN. Following a recent appearance by one of Epstein’s victims on Norwegian television, Crown Princess Mette-Marit issued a statement expressing her support: “I am deeply shaken by the stories of the many victims of Epstein, and they have my full support. It is important that their voice is heard” CNN.

The U.S. Department of Justice continues to release materials related to Jeffrey Epstein through the Epstein Files Transparency Act United States Department of Justice.