Queen Margrethe II of Denmark, aged 85, remains in good spirits following her recent hospitalization for a cold. The Danish royal family announced on Friday, May 9, 2025, that the monarch is expected to be discharged from Rigshospitalet in Copenhagen over the weekend.
Margrethe was admitted to the hospital on Thursday, May 8, as a precautionary measure after contracting a cold, which led her to cancel her attendance at a public engagement. The palace stated, "Due to the cold that Her Majesty Queen Margrethe has contracted, it has been decided that she will be admitted to Rigshospitalet for observation." This admission sparked concern among the public, given her recent health struggles.
However, the royal family reassured the public with an update, saying, "Her Majesty is recovering and in good spirits. Queen Margrethe is therefore expected to be discharged from Rigshospitalet and return to Fredensborg Palace during the weekend." The queen last appeared in public on May 4, 2025, during a church service marking the 80th anniversary of Denmark's liberation.
Born on April 16, 1940, Queen Margrethe celebrated her 85th birthday just weeks prior to her hospital admission. The celebration included a banquet at Fredensborg Palace, attended by family members, including her sons, King Frederik X and Prince Joachim, as well as their wives and children. The royal family shared images of the event on social media, highlighting a beautifully decorated table and a cake that delighted the queen.
Margrethe abdicated the throne in January 2024 after 52 years of reign, making her the first Danish sovereign to voluntarily abdicate in 900 years. Her decision was influenced by her health issues, including a significant back surgery she underwent in February 2023. She stated, "It went well, thanks to the skilled healthcare staff who took care of me. Of course, the operation also gave rise to thinking about the future - whether the time had come to leave the responsibility to the next generation."
Despite stepping down, she remains a beloved figure in Denmark, known for her artistic talents and public engagements. In 2024, she won the Danish equivalent of the Oscar for her costume designs and has illustrated several books, including J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings under the pseudonym Ingahild Grathmer. Her artistic contributions have been widely recognized, and she continues to engage with the arts community.
Margrethe's health has been a topic of concern in recent years. Following her abdication, she has faced several health challenges, including a hospitalization in the fall of 2023 after a fall. Her resilience and dedication to her royal duties have earned her admiration from the Danish people. The Prime Minister has described her as "the epitome of Denmark," reflecting the deep respect and affection the public holds for her.
Throughout her reign, Margrethe has maintained a close relationship with her third cousin, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom, both being descendants of Queen Victoria. Their bond was strengthened through various state visits, including one in 2000 when Margrethe was received at Windsor.
In addition to her royal responsibilities, Margrethe has engaged in various artistic pursuits. She has illustrated works of literature and participated in exhibitions showcasing her art. Her contributions to the arts were celebrated in 2024 when she received the Robert Prize from the Danish Film Academy for her costume work.
The queen's legacy includes not only her lengthy reign but also her ability to connect with the Danish people. She often walks the streets of Copenhagen unescorted, engaging with citizens and enjoying their admiration for her warm demeanor and creative spirit.
Despite her recent health issues, the palace remains optimistic about her recovery. The royal family is hopeful that Margrethe will be able to return to her residence at Fredensborg Palace soon, where she can continue her recovery in the comfort of her home.
As Denmark's longest-reigning monarch, Margrethe has left an indelible mark on the nation. Her reign has seen significant changes in Danish society, and she has navigated the complexities of modern monarchy with grace and dignity. The public eagerly awaits her return to royal duties, confident in her enduring spirit and commitment to her role.
In summary, Queen Margrethe II's recent hospitalization has raised concerns, but the royal family has provided reassuring updates about her health. As she prepares to return home, the queen's legacy as a beloved monarch and talented artist continues to shine.
