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In an interview with Norway’s public broadcaster NRK on Friday, Crown Princess Mette-Marit revealed that she was “manipulated” by convicted US sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, addressing the nature of their controversial friendship.
Mette-Marit’s comments, aired on Friday, shed light on the connection that has raised questions in Norway, particularly regarding her potential future as queen.
Mette-Marit, who married Crown Prince Haakon in 2001, acknowledged that her name appeared in newly released Epstein documents, which were made public by the US Department of Justice earlier this year. These documents uncovered the extent of Epstein’s relationship with the princess, prompting a public outcry and speculation about her suitability to one day be queen.
“I wish I had never met him,” Mette-Marit said, expressing deep regret. She also admitted her failure to thoroughly investigate Epstein’s past, noting the manipulation she had been subjected to. “It is extremely important for me to acknowledge that I did not look into his past more carefully, and also to acknowledge that I was manipulated and deceived to such an extent,” she said.
Clarifying the nature of her relationship with Epstein, Mette-Marit emphasised that it had always been platonic. “It was a friendly relationship: above all, he was a friend to me,” she explained. “But if your question is whether the relationship had another nature, the answer is no.”
The interview comes at a time when the princess is already facing personal turmoil. Her son, Marius Borg Hoiby, is currently involved in a legal battle, facing 38 charges, including allegations of rape and assault.
In reflecting on her past association with Epstein, the Crown Princess reiterated her regret. Despite the damage to her public image, she remains resolute in acknowledging her mistakes and distancing herself from the disgraced financier’s dark history.
