2024 is proving to be an annus horribilis for the Norwegian Royal Family. The year began with King Harald, aged 87, being hospitalized during his visit to Malaysia, which later required him to be evacuated back to Norway. The situation continued to deteriorate with multiple scandals, including the controversial wedding of Princess Märtha Louise to Durek Verrett, which sparked criticism when she sold photo rights to the British tabloid "Hello!". The most severe issue has been the legal troubles for Marius Borg Høiby, the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, who has faced increasing scrutiny as serious allegations mounted against him.
According to reports, Marius was taken by police after allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend under the influence of drugs. After spending time in custody, he is now undergoing treatment abroad. The continuous flow of scandalous revelations has made this year particularly challenging for the royal family, and public sentiment appears to be shifting. A survey conducted by VG showed one-third of respondents expressing more negative views toward the monarchy.
With Mette-Marit facing intense public scrutiny, recent surveys indicate rising discontent: only 27.5% believe she would make a suitable future queen. This dissatisfaction seems to stem primarily from the Høiby case, with 44.7% of people noting their trust has diminished due to the situation. Another recent NRK poll showed similar sentiment, with 45% reflecting negatively on the Royal Family.
Despite these challenges, younger members of the Royal Family, such as Princess Ingrid Alexandra and Prince Sverre Magnus, have become more visible this year. This visibility is likely strategic as the palace aims to assure the public of the monarchy's continuity, especially with Ingrid Alexandra seen as the future Queen. At 18, she has shown promise and received substantial public support; 67.2% of Norwegians believe she will eventually take the throne. This could be the royal family's secret weapon, as they navigate these turbulent times.
While the public is increasingly turning against them, expert opinions suggest King Harald might address the family challenges during his traditional New Year's Eve speech. According to rhetoric expert Kjell Terje Ringdal, the King is known for uniting the people through his speeches. Historically, he has addressed social themes such as climate change and solidarity. This year, listeners will expect something substantial. "If the sender has credibility, which the Norwegian king does, their words have the power to shape us," he noted.
"I would be surprised if he does not bring up this annus horribilis for the royal family," Pendulum expert Caroline Vagle said, echoing Ringdal’s sentiment. While she believes the King will mention it, Vagle stresses the need for him to balance personal issues and broader societal problems. The recent events concerning Marius are, as Ringdal mentioned, the "elephant in the room."
The royal family is undergoing crises not only due to Marius but also because of the questions surrounding Mette-Marit’s role as mother amid her son's struggles. She has attempted to shield him from media scrutiny, having been known to inform him of police visits beforehand.
Mette-Marit is now under scrutiny as some call for her to be interrogated about her son’s issues. Allegations suggest she was aware of her son's problems but did not intervene decisively when she could have. Discussions about her involvement and whether it should be revealed during the legal proceedings continue to stir public interest.
One notable incident involved Marius allegedly tipping off his mother about police activity, demonstrating deep family entanglements amid these legal troubles. The justice system, meanwhile, could compel her testimony, though with her royal title, King Harald has the authority to intervene—just as he did with Märtha Louise decades ago during her divorce hearing.
With King Harald’s traditional New Year's speech on the horizon, many speculate whether he will navigate the topic delicately or avoid the private matters altogether, focusing instead on broader societal issues. "This speech should inspire people and create hope for the future rather than dwell excessively on our personal challenges," suggested Ringdal.
The upcoming speech could be pivotal, serving both as reassurance to the public and as acknowledgment of the Royal Family’s troubling year. Fans of the monarchy will be holding their breath to see how the King balances these dramatically intertwined issues.
Despite the turmoil, public patience remains. While the Royal Family faces setbacks, there is still strong belief among the populace, particularly concerning Ingrid Alexandra’s promising role. This year, more than any other, will test the resilience of the Norwegian monarchy as they navigate through public perception, family drama, and the ever-critical eye of the media.
Norwegians will be watching closely, perhaps with hope for renewed strength and direction from their royal family, as they look toward the next phase of their storied legacy amid so much uncertainty.
