Oslo, March 22, 2026 – The Europe Today: Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has publicly expressed deep regret over her past association with convicted financier Jeffrey Epstein, following the release of new documents by the United States Justice Department that detail the extent of their contact.
The disclosures form part of a broader release outlining Epstein’s global connections, including ties with high-profile figures across political and diplomatic circles, notably within Norway’s elite.
In an emotional interview with Norwegian broadcaster NRK, the crown princess said she had been “manipulated and deceived,” adding that she deeply regretted ever meeting Epstein.
Details Revealed in Documents
According to the newly released files, Mette-Marit remained in contact with Epstein between 2011 and 2014, several years after his 2008 conviction for soliciting an underage girl. The documents also confirm that she stayed at Epstein’s residence in Palm Beach for several days in 2013, indicating a more prolonged association than previously understood.
An email from 2011 further raises questions, in which she acknowledged that Epstein’s record “didn’t look too good.” However, she later stated that she could not recall the context of the message and maintained that she had never witnessed any illegal activity. Importantly, no criminal wrongdoing has been alleged against her.
Political and Public Reaction
The revelations have prompted strong reactions in Norway, with the government calling for a more comprehensive explanation. Public scrutiny of the royal family has intensified, as earlier reports had already linked the crown princess to Epstein, but the scale of communication disclosed has deepened concerns.
The issue has also highlighted inconsistencies with her 2019 statement, in which she suggested she had not fully understood the severity of Epstein’s crimes at the time.
Personal and Family Challenges
The controversy comes at a challenging time for the Norwegian royal family. Crown Prince Haakon has expressed full support for his wife, describing the situation as a difficult period.
Mette-Marit has been absent from public duties in recent weeks due to health and family pressures. She suffers from a chronic lung condition that may eventually require a transplant.
The situation is further complicated by an ongoing legal case involving her son, Marius Borg Høiby, who faces serious criminal charges and has pleaded not guilty to allegations of rape and domestic abuse.
Impact on the Monarchy
The scandal has begun to affect public confidence in Norway’s monarchy. Recent opinion polls indicate a decline in support for the institution, alongside a growing number of citizens favoring a republican system.
While the royal family continues its official engagements, the controversy surrounding Mette-Marit represents one of the most significant reputational challenges in recent years.
The episode underscores the vulnerability of traditional institutions such as monarchies to global controversies, particularly those linked to figures like Epstein whose networks span international elite circles.
Although no legal wrongdoing has been attributed to Mette-Marit, questions regarding judgment and awareness remain central. For the Norwegian monarchy, the issue extends beyond legality to public trust, which remains fundamental to its legitimacy.
Amid ongoing personal and institutional challenges, the controversy is likely to shape public perceptions and test the resilience of the monarchy in an era of increased transparency and accountability.
