Princess Astrid’s Death Follows Closely After King Harald V’s Funeral
The Norwegian royal family announced the passing of Princess Astrid at the age of 94, just two days after the funeral of her brother, King Harald V. She was the last surviving child of former King Olav V. King Harald V, who reigned for over 35 years, died last month at the age of 89. Princess Astrid’s death symbolizes a significant transition within Norway’s monarchy.
King Haakon VII Highlights Princess Astrid’s Dedication
Current King Haakon VII paid tribute to Princess Astrid’s lifelong dedication and warm representation of the royal family. From 1954 to 1968, she served as Norway’s first lady following the death of their mother, Crown Princess Märtha. Throughout her life, she focused extensively on supporting vulnerable groups in society, advocating for compassion and inclusion. Her health had been declining in recent months, including a hospitalization in March due to pneumonia.
National Mourning and Funeral Arrangements
Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre confirmed that the state would cover the funeral expenses, with national flags flying at half-mast to honor the princess. The king’s funeral attracted numerous European royals—including the Prince of Wales—and heads of state, drawing thousands of citizens who lined the route from the Royal Palace to Oslo Cathedral in a solemn show of respect.
Royal Family Faces Recent Scrutiny Amid Personal Challenges
In King Harald V’s final years, the Norwegian royal family experienced a series of private controversies. Earlier this year, documents surfaced revealing frequent contacts between Crown Princess Mette-Marit and the late American financier Jeffrey Epstein, prompting public expressions of regret from the princess. Adding further complexity, Mette-Marit’s son from a previous relationship, Marius Borg Høiby, was convicted of two counts of rape in June and sentenced to four years in prison. He was, however, granted house arrest and allowed to attend Princess Astrid’s funeral during his appeal process.
Princess Astrid’s final public appearance was at King Harald V’s funeral, where she received farewells from the public while seated in a wheelchair. Her passing not only marks the loss of a key figure in the Norwegian royal family but also brings renewed focus to the royal household’s responsibilities and challenges amid ongoing scrutiny.