King Harald V of Norway died on Tuesday at the age of 89, the Royal House announced. He had reigned for 35 years, becoming a beloved figure in the country who navigated both tradition and modern challenges.
Harald V ascended to the throne in 1991, succeeding his father, King Olav V. He broke with tradition by marrying a commoner, Sonja Haraldsen, in 1968, an event that signaled a more modern approach for the monarchy. The couple had two children, Princess Märtha Louise and Crown Prince Haakon.
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In recent years, the King's health had declined, leading him to reduce his public engagements. In April 2024, he underwent surgery for a rare blood condition, hemolytic anemia, which affects red blood cell count. He was hospitalized on August 17, and his son, Crown Prince Haakon, took over his duties as regent.
The Norwegian royal family has faced considerable public scrutiny in the past year due to a series of personal health challenges and scandals. These included the rape trial of Harald's grandson, Marius Borg Høiby, who was convicted of multiple offenses and has appealed a four-year jail sentence. Shortly before the King's death, Høiby was seen at his bedside. Additionally, reports emerged of Crown Princess Mette-Marit's past contact with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, which led her to apologize for her "poor judgment" and express regret over the friendship.
Mette-Marit also underwent a lung transplant eight years after being diagnosed with a rare form of pulmonary fibrosis. Her recovery is ongoing, and the new King Haakon will continue to support her through this period.
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These events have impacted the monarchy's popularity, with one poll indicating a drop in support from 72% in 2024 to 54%. Despite the controversies, historians note that criticism was rarely directed at the King himself, suggesting a deep affection and respect for Harald V among Norwegians.
King Harald was known for his efforts to celebrate Norway's diversity and for his approach to family matters, which some described as lenient and focused on open discussion rather than harsh directives. As the nation mourns its beloved king, attention turns to Crown Prince Haakon, who is now King Haakon, and his role in leading the monarchy through this period of transition and continued public interest.