King Harald V of Norway, the first monarch born in the country in nearly 600 years, died on August 28 at the age of 89. He passed away peacefully at Oslo University Hospital while being treated for haemolytic anaemia, a rare blood disorder that causes the rapid destruction of red blood cells. The royal court confirmed his death, noting it occurred at 6:35 a.m.
Harald’s passing marks the end of a reign that began in 1991. He was widely respected and admired in Norway, with Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre describing him as a unifying figure who inspired confidence and a sense of community among Norwegians. A poll earlier this year rated Harald highly as a symbol of the monarchy.
Following Harald's death, his son, Crown Prince Haakon, 53, ascended to the throne as King Haakon VIII. His wife, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, 53, became queen amid ongoing public scrutiny. Mette-Marit’s past associations have generated controversy, particularly after reports emerged that she had visited the Palm Beach residence of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in 2013. Emails released as part of the Epstein Files suggested continued contact with Epstein months before his death in 2019. Mette-Marit has expressed remorse and stated she was misled by Epstein. King Harald publicly defended her, emphasizing that she had not engaged in any illegal activity and had severed ties early on.
The royal family has faced additional challenges this year. In June, Mette-Marit's son from a previous relationship, Marius Borg Høiby, 29, was convicted of two counts of rape, receiving a four-year prison sentence. He was also found guilty of assault, making threats, and traffic violations at an Oslo court. Høiby denies some of the charges and is appealing the conviction. Mette-Marit underwent a lung transplant shortly after her son’s conviction, which drew sympathy amid the family's trials.
King Harald was born on February 21, 1937, to Crown Prince Olav and Crown Princess Märtha. Following the Nazi invasion of Norway in 1940, the royal family fled to the United States. Harald returned after World War II and later studied history, economics, and politics at Balliol College, Oxford. He was a keen sportsman, notably competing in sailing at three Olympic Games and winning world and European championships.
Harald’s marriage to Sonja Haraldsen in 1968 was notable for breaking royal protocol, as Sonja was a commoner—a union initially opposed by the palace. The couple had two children, Princess Märtha Louise and Crown Prince Haakon. Recent controversies have also involved Märtha Louise’s second marriage to Derek Verrett, a figure who drew criticism for controversial claims and statements directed at the king.
Despite these scandals, Harald maintained high personal approval within Norway, where the monarchy remains a symbol of national identity and continuity. King Charles of the United Kingdom extended condolences, referring to Harald as a "dear cousin" and praising his kindness and sense of duty.
King Harald’s death opens a new chapter for the Norwegian monarchy as King Haakon VIII assumes the throne amid a mix of public respect and royal family challenges.