Norway: King Harald's health has 'deteriorated'
Queen Mette-Marit of Norway will remain absent from royal duties until summer 2027 following a lung transplant in July. The Royal Palace issued an update confirming her extended recovery period. Her absence coincides with the transition of power to King Haakon, who ascended the throne following the death of King Harald V. Meanwhile, future queen Ingrid Alexandra returned to Australia to complete her university studies after previously pausing her education to assist her mother through health complications.
Listen to Live Briefing
Real-time synthesized voice briefing · Live Feeds Desk
- ✓ Queen Mette-Marit of Norway will not be carrying out any royal duties until next summer, according to the royal house.
- ✓ The queen underwent a lung transplant back in July and has been recovering ever since.
- ✓ Crown Prince Haakon has ascended the throne as Haakon VIII following the death of King Harald V.
- ✓ The government allocated 20 million Norwegian kroner for the final resting place of King Harald V and Queen Sonja.
What changed
The Norwegian Royal Palace released a formal update specifying that Queen Mette-Marit will suspend all royal duties until the summer of 2027.
Live updates
-
Norway Royal Palace Issues Update on Queen Mette-Marit's Health
Queen Mette-Marit of Norway will remain absent from royal duties until summer 2027 following a lung transplant in July. The Royal Palace issued an update confirming her extended recovery period. Her absence coincides with the transition of power to King Haakon, who ascended the throne following the death of King Harald V. Meanwhile, future queen Ingrid Alexandra returned to Australia to complete her university studies after previously pausing her education to assist her mother through health complications.
Why it matters
Queen Mette-Marit's prolonged medical leave significantly impacts the working royal family as King Haakon assumes his new reign alone following the conclusion of the official mourning period. The royal house continues to navigate staffing constraints at the top level while younger family members balance institutional duties and personal obligations.
What is confirmed
- Queen Mette-Marit of Norway will not be carrying out any royal duties until next summer, according to the royal house.
- The queen underwent a lung transplant back in July and has been recovering ever since.
- Crown Prince Haakon has ascended the throne as Haakon VIII following the death of King Harald V.
- The government allocated 20 million Norwegian kroner for the final resting place of King Harald V and Queen Sonja.
Still unconfirmed
- King Harald V of Norway reportedly topped annual lists as the highest-paid monarch in the world with an estimated $96 million in combined earnings, though an update indicated this story may be false.
What to watch next
- Official announcements regarding Queen Mette-Marit's phased return to public engagements ahead of summer 2027.
- Further updates from the Royal Palace regarding state duties handled by King Haakon.
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (15)
- en.wikipedia.org — Norway - Wikipedia
- www.worldatlas.com — Norway Maps & Facts - World Atlas
- www.wral.com — AP Health News and Reporting Coverage, page 8 | WRAL
- www.theguardian.com — Norwegian princess Märtha Louise and husband sue ex-friends ...
- en.wikipedia.org — History of Norway - Wikipedia
- simple.wikipedia.org — Norway - Simple English Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
- www.newsinenglish.no — Norway’s new king on his own as mourning period ends
- au.lifestyle.yahoo.com — Norway's future queen Ingrid Alexandra returns to Australia to finish university
- www.yahoo.com — Why Queen Mette-Marit Won’t Resume Royal Duties Until Summer 2027
- www.yahoo.com — Princess Märtha Louise and Durek Verrett sue former inner circle for more than $80 million
- www.timeout.com — Norway 2026 | Ultimate Guide To Where To Go, Eat & Sleep in ...
- www.express.co.uk — Royal abruptly withdraws from royal duties as palace issue statement | Royal | News | Express.co.uk
-
Crown Prince Haakon succeeds King Harald V as King of Norway
Crown Prince Haakon has ascended the throne as Haakon VIII following the death of King Harald V on August 28, 2026. While the transition of power is automatic, Queen Mette-Marit will miss the first Opening of Parliament of the new reign. The Royal Palace in Oslo confirmed her absence is due to a "respiratory infection" causing health complications. King Harald died at age 89 at Oslo National Hospital after a period of declining health.
Why it matters
The transition marks the end of a reign lasting more than 35 years. The Opening of Parliament is a primary formal event for a new monarch to establish their reign.
What is confirmed
- King Harald V died at age 89 on August 28, 2026.
- Crown Prince Haakon automatically succeeded King Harald V on the throne.
- The Royal Palace in Oslo announced Queen Mette-Marit has a "respiratory infection".
- King Harald V passed away at Oslo National Hospital.
What to watch next
- The rescheduled appearance of Queen Mette-Marit at parliamentary events
- Official coronation or formal installation ceremonies for Haakon VIII
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.thedailystar.net — Norway's King Harald dead at 89 | The Daily Star
- www.hola.com — Last-minute withdrawal: Mette-Marit of Norway will not debut ...
-
Norway Mourns King Harald V After His Death at Age 89
Norway's King Harald V has died at age 89 after more than 35 years on the throne. The Royal Palace stated that the monarch passed away peacefully at Oslo National Hospital, having spent several weeks on sick leave before being admitted to the hospital. His health had drastically deteriorated over the weekend prior to his passing on August 28, 2026. Queen Sonja and other members of the royal family were affected by the period surrounding his hospitalization and subsequent death.
Why it matters
The death of King Harald V marks the end of a 35-year reign for a monarch whose life spanned modern Norwegian history from childhood exile during war to decades as head of state. His passing prompted public mourning outside the Royal Palace in Oslo and drew international figures to a funeral service in the city's Lutheran cathedral. The royal family also faced the subsequent death of Princess Astrid just weeks later.
What is confirmed
- King Harald V of Norway died at the age of 89 after more than 35 years on the throne.
- The monarch passed away at Oslo National Hospital on August 28, 2026.
What to watch next
- Updates regarding Queen Mette-Marit following her withdrawal from a major engagement due to health complications
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (5)
- cde.news — King Harald V of Norway dies aged 89 after 35 years on the throne
- www.gbnews.com — Queen Mette-Marit pulls out of major engagement following health complications - GB News
- avisendanmark.dk — OVERBLIK: Kong Haralds indlæggelser de forgangne år
- www.nrk.no — Kongefamilien – Siste nytt – NRK
- norwegianfoodstore.com — King Harald V: A Life of Service to Norway (1937–2026)
-
Norway Says Farewell to King Harald V as Princess Astrid Dies
Norway bids farewell to King Harald V following his death at age 89 on August 28. Hundreds of mourners gathered outside the Royal Palace in Oslo as concern grew over his worsening health prior to his passing. A funeral service took place on Wednesday in the Lutheran cathedral of Oslo in the presence of Prince William and Volodymyr Zelensky, before his remains were moved to Akershus Castle. Meanwhile, Princess Astrid died at age 94 on September 11, just weeks after her younger brother, and her adopted Chihuahua Wilma died days later.
Why it matters
King Harald V died at the National Hospital in Oslo after a 35-year reign, prompting an outpouring of public grief and a memorial service on September 9. Before his death, the late monarch had been planning a joint 90th birthday celebration with Queen Sonja for Europe's royals. Princess Astrid passed away shortly after attending the funeral of her brother, and her death was followed closely by the passing of her pet dog.
What is confirmed
- King Harald V died on August 28 at the age of 89.
- Princess Astrid died on September 11 at the age of 94, just weeks after her brother.
- Norway bid farewell to King Harald V during a funeral in Oslo on Wednesday.
Still unconfirmed
- King Harald V was planning a star-studded 90th birthday party with Queen Sonja before his death.
What to watch next
- Updates from the palace regarding the succession and plans for Queen Sonja
- Future royal events involving heiress-to-the-throne Ingrid
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (11)
- www.dailymail.com — Norway's King and Queen lead royals - including heiress-to-the-throne Ingrid - at funeral for Princess Astrid, who died days after attending her late brother Harald V'…
- www.africanews.com — Hundreds gather in Oslo to support Norway’s King Harald V
- en.mediamass.net — “King Harald V of Norway dead 2026” : Monarch killed by ...
- www.aol.com — Princess Astrid's beloved dog, Wilma, dies days after royal's death - AOL
- carrollcountyobserver.com — Final farewell to Harald V, the gathering after the scandals
- newsbeyonddetroit.net — Princess Astrid’s Beloved Chihuahua Dies Days After Norwegian ...
- www.yahoo.com — King Harald was planning a royal-studded 90th birthday with ...
- gardnermagazine.com — World News of the Week – Gardner News Magazine: Local News & Articles in Gardner MA
- www.express.co.uk — Heartbreak as king was planning star-studded party shortly ...
- monarchysociety.blogspot.com — Looking Back on August 28: The Death of King Harald V
- en.mediamass.net — King Harald V of Norway's Dog Recovering from Surgery
-
Princess Astrid's Dog Dies
Princess Astrid's dog Wilma has died just days after the princess passed away at age 94. Princess Astrid died on Friday, only two days after attending the funeral of her brother, King Harald V. King Harald V died on August 28 at age 89 following a 35-year reign, leading to a memorial service on September 9 attended by international royals and dignitaries. Following her palace-confirmed death, King Haakon VIII described Princess Astrid as a warm and dutiful representative of the Royal House.
Why it matters
The monarchy is navigating a period of deep mourning following the deaths of King Harald V and Princess Astrid. Memorial events have previously drawn international attention and dignitaries to Norway. The recent death of the princess's dog adds to the sequence of losses surrounding the royal household.
What is confirmed
- Princess Astrid passed away at age 94 on Friday, two days after attending the funeral of her brother, King Harald V.
- King Harald V died on August 28 at age 89 after a 35-year reign.
- King Haakon VIII described Princess Astrid as a warm and dutiful representative of the Royal House.
Still unconfirmed
- Princess Astrid's dog, Wilma, died days after the royal's death.
What to watch next
- Further announcements from the palace regarding royal mourning and memorials
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- jen.jiji.com — Tokayev thanks Putin for condolences over deaths of military personnel
- www.usatoday.com — Princess Astrid's beloved dog, Wilma, dies days after royal's death
-
Norway Royal Family Faces Further Strain Amid Recent Deaths
Norway faces a period of royal mourning following the recent deaths of senior members of the monarchy. Princess Astrid passed away at age 94 on Friday, only two days after attending the funeral of her brother, King Harald V. King Harald V had died on August 28 at age 89 after a 35-year reign, with his memorial service drawing international royals and dignitaries on September 9. King Haakon VIII described Princess Astrid as a warm and dutiful representative of the Royal House following her palace-confirmed death.
Why it matters
The consecutive deaths of King Harald V and Princess Astrid place intense pressure on the Norwegian royal line of succession and public stability. These losses follow a dense calendar of state memorials and international diplomacy that began with the late king's passing in late August.
What is confirmed
- Princess Astrid of Norway died Friday at age 94, two days after attending the funeral of her brother, King Harald V.
- King Harald V died on August 28 at age 89, serving as monarch for 35 years.
- King Harald V's memorial service took place on September 9, attended by international royals and dignitaries.
What to watch next
- Official announcements regarding succession and upcoming state duties from the Norwegian royal palace
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (2)
- www.thedailybeast.com — Céline Dion Reveals Why She Broke Down at First Concert in 6 Years
- www.aol.com — 79 Remarkable Photos That Show The Past In A Way No History Book Ever Could (New Pics)
-
Princess Astrid of Norway dies at 94 following King Harald V funeral
Princess Astrid of Norway died Friday at age 94, two days after attending the funeral of her brother, King Harald V. The royal palace confirmed her death in a statement, with King Haakon VIII describing her as a warm and dutiful representative of the Royal House. Princess Astrid's passing follows the death of King Harald V on August 28 at age 89, who served as monarch for 35 years. His memorial service took place on September 9, attended by international royals and dignitaries.
Why it matters
The Norwegian royal family has lost two senior members within two weeks. King Harald V was a popular figure known for a down-to-earth approach during his long reign.
What is confirmed
- Princess Astrid died Friday at the age of 94.
- King Harald V died on August 28 at age 89.
- King Harald V reigned for 35 years.
- The funeral for King Harald V was held on September 9.
- Princess Astrid was the older sister of King Harald V.
Still unconfirmed
- Princess Astrid had received hospital treatment for pneumonia in March and suffered from deteriorating health in recent months.
What to watch next
- Announcement of funeral arrangements for Princess Astrid
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (7)
- apnews.com — Norway to bid final farewell to King Harald V with funeral attended by royalty and dignitaries
- www.cnn.com — Norway bids final farewell to popular King Harald V as crowds and royals converge for his funeral
- www.dailymail.com — Norway's Princess Astrid dies aged 94 days after appearing at her brother King Harald's funeral
- www.thedailybeast.com — Royal Family Rocked by Death Just Days After King’s Funeral
- www.thedailybeast.com — King Charles’ Ex-Girlfriend Dies at 75
- www.lbc.co.uk — Norway's Princess Astrid dies just two days after bother King Harald's funeral
- www.tvcnews.tv — Princess Astrid Of Norway Dies At 94, Two Days After Brother’s Funeral
-
Thousands mourn King Harald V ahead of Oslo state funeral
Tens of thousands of people gathered outside the royal palace in Oslo on Saturday to leave flowers and cards following the death of King Harald V at age 89. The late monarch's state funeral is scheduled for tomorrow at Oslo Cathedral. Over 150 flights are expected to arrive at Gardermoen carrying heads of state, VIPs, and royal guests from nations including Japan and Jordan. Prince William is expected to lead the gathering of international royals.
Why it matters
King Harald V was the oldest monarch in Europe and served as king for 35 years. Crown Prince Haakon has succeeded him. The transition occurs shortly before the late king's 58th wedding anniversary to Queen Sonja.
What is confirmed
- Tens of thousands of mourners placed flowers and condolence cards outside the royal palace in Oslo on Saturday.
- King Harald V died at age 89.
- The state funeral for King Harald V will take place tomorrow at Oslo Cathedral.
Still unconfirmed
- More than 150 flights carrying royal guests, heads of state and VIPs are expected to land at Gardermoen.
- Prince William will lead a gathering of royals from Japan to Jordan at the funeral.
What to watch next
- The state funeral proceedings at Oslo Cathedral
- Official arrival of international heads of state at Gardermoen
confidence 90%Sources used for this update (6)
- www.hellomagazine.com — Norwegian Royals: news, photos, royal events and more...
- www.nbcnews.com — Tens of thousands mourn King Harald V in Oslo as Norway enters a new royal era
- www.hellomagazine.com — King Harald
- www.dailymail.com — How Harald V's state funeral will unfold: Prince William to lead extraordinary gathering of royals from Japan to Jordan - and the role Norway's Queen will play de…
- www.hellomagazine.com — Queen Sonja
- www.hellomagazine.com — European Royals
-
King Harald V of Norway dies at 89
King Harald V of Norway has died at age 89, the Norwegian royal palace announced on Friday. He served as monarch for 35 years and was the oldest monarch in Europe. Crown Prince Haakon succeeds him as king. His death occurred one day before his 58th wedding anniversary to Queen Sonja. King Charles of the United Kingdom issued a tribute to his "dear cousin" following the announcement.
Why it matters
Harald V modernized the Norwegian monarchy, notably by marrying a commoner. He spent his early years in exile in the United States during wartime.
What is confirmed
- King Harald V of Norway died at the age of 89.
- The Norwegian royal palace announced the death on Friday.
- Crown Prince Haakon succeeds King Harald.
- King Harald served 35 years on the throne.
Still unconfirmed
- King Harald died the day before his 58th wedding anniversary to Queen Sonja.
- King Harald was Europe's oldest monarch.
What to watch next
- Official funeral arrangements and dates
- Formal coronation or accession ceremonies for King Haakon
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (4)
- www.usatoday.com — Norway's King Harald dies at 89, King Charles pays tribute to 'dear cousin'
- www.vanityfair.com — King Harald V of Norway Dies at 89
- leadership.ng — Norway’s King Harald Dies At 89, Crown Prince Haakon Succeeds Him
- www.komu.com — Harald V, the sailing king who epitomized a modern Norwegian royalty, dies
-
Norway's King Harald in 'very serious' health condition
King Harald V of Norway, 89, is hospitalized with a bacterial infection and his health has deteriorated, with his condition now described as 'very serious'. The royal family, including Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, and Crown Princess Mette-Marit, have visited him and canceled all scheduled engagements.
Why it matters
King Harald is the oldest reigning monarch in Europe. He was previously hospitalized for a blood disease and bacterial infection, and his health had stabilized before deteriorating again. The royal family's swift response and concern for the king's health have raised alarm about his condition.
What is confirmed
- King Harald V of Norway is 89 years old.
- King Harald's health has deteriorated while in hospital.
- The royal family has canceled all scheduled engagements to be with the king.
- King Harald's condition is described as 'very serious' by the royal palace.
What to watch next
- Further updates on King Harald's health condition
- Royal family's plans for succession or temporary transfer of duties
- King Harald's potential release from hospital or change in treatment
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (8)
- www.mirror.co.uk — Norway's Crown Princess shares photos of disgraced son as she celebrates silver wedding anniversary
- nypost.com — Norway’s King Harald in ‘very serious’ health condition, royal family cancels all planned events
- www.goulburnpost.com.au — Norway's King Harald in 'very serious' health condition
- www.aol.co.uk — Norway's King Harald in 'extremely serious' condition, palace confirms
- www.arise.tv — Palace Says Norway’s King Harald In ‘Very Serious’ Health Condition
- www.yahoo.com — King Harald of Norway’s Final Public Appearances Before Hospitalization Showed His Changing Health
- charter97.org — The King Of Norway's Health Has Deteriorated
- www.hola.com — King Harald’s entire family rushes to hospital after palace issues ‘very serious’ health update
-
Norway's King Harald V health worsens, now stable
King Harald V of Norway, 89, is hospitalized for a blood disease and bacterial infection. His health deteriorated over the weekend but is now stable. The monarch is receiving antibiotics. Family members, including Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, and Crown Princess Mette-Marit, have visited him.
Why it matters
King Harald V's health issues have raised concerns about the succession of the Norwegian throne. Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit recently celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary amid these health challenges. The royal family's health concerns have drawn significant attention.
What is confirmed
- King Harald V of Norway is 89 years old.
- King Harald V was admitted to the National Hospital in Oslo for treatment of a blood disease.
- King Harald V is receiving antibiotics to treat a bacterial blood infection.
- The health of King Harald V deteriorated over the weekend.
- King Harald V's health has stabilized.
- Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, and Crown Princess Mette-Marit have visited King Harald V at his bedside.
What to watch next
- King Harald V's future health developments
- Crown Princess Mette-Marit's recovery from lung transplant
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (9)
- BBC — Norway's King Harald V's health has worsened, palace says
- ABC News - Breaking News, Latest News and Videos — The health of Norway's King Harald deteriorated over the weekend but he is stable now
- Yahoo — Disgraced stepson of Norway's future King makes surprise appearance in anniversary photos after rape sentence
- Sky News — Health of Norway's King Harald deteriorated at the weekend, say royal officials
- Tatler — Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway celebrate their wedding anniversary amid a turbulent time for the royal family
- Town & Country Magazine — Crown Prince Haakon and Mette-Marit Celebrate 25 Years of Marriage With Unseen Honeymoon Photos
- www.townandcountrymag.com — Norwegian Royals Share New Portrait to Celebrate Crown Prince Haakon and Princess Mette-Marit’s Wedding Anniversary
- www.aol.com — Norway royals release unseen anniversary photos featuring Marius Borg Høiby after rape conviction
- www.aol.com — Prince Haakon and Princess Mette-Marit mark milestone amid King of Norway's health issues
-
Norway's King Harald health deteriorates during hospitalization
The royal palace reported that 89-year-old King Harald's health deteriorated over the weekend while he remained in the hospital. The monarch was admitted to the National Hospital in Oslo one week ago for treatment of a blood disease. He is currently receiving antibiotics to treat a bacterial blood infection. Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, and Crown Princess Mette-Marit have visited the King at his bedside.
Why it matters
King Harald is the oldest reigning monarch in Europe. His current hospitalization involves a blood condition that has led to an urgent update from the royal household.
What is confirmed
- King Harald is 89 years old.
- The royal palace stated the King's health deteriorated over the weekend.
- King Harald was admitted to the National Hospital in Oslo one week ago.
- The King is receiving antibiotics for a bacterial blood infection.
- King Harald is the oldest reigning monarch in Europe.
Still unconfirmed
- Crown Princess Mette-Marit made her first public appearance since a lung transplant.
- Durek Verrett visited the King at his bedside.
What to watch next
- Official updates on the King's response to antibiotic treatment
- Statements regarding the King's ability to resume royal duties
confidence 100%Sources used for this update (14)
- Yahoo — Crown Princess Mette-Marit Makes Her First Public Appearance Since Her Lung Transplant
- Reuters — Health of Norway's king deteriorates while in hospital, palace says
- dw.com — Norway: King Harald's health has 'deteriorated' — palace
- KVUE — King Harald of Norway is hospitalized for treatment in connection with a blood disease
- Royal Central — King Harald’s health update as Norwegian monarch remains in hospital
- apnews.com — The health of Norway’s King Harald deteriorates over the weekend
- consent.yahoo.com — Fears grow for King Harald, 89, as palace gives urgent update after hospitalisation: 'His health has deteriorated'
- www.newsday.com — The health of Norway's King Harald deteriorates over the weekend
- www.dw.com — Norway: King Harald's health has 'deteriorated' — palace
- www.tatler.com — King Harald of Norway's health has 'deteriorated' while in hospital
- www.irishnews.com — King of Norway’s health deteriorated over weekend, says palace
- timesofindia.indiatimes.com — Norway King Harald V's health update: Here's what happened to the 89-year-old monarch
Community Sentiment: How do you assess this situation?
Voice your perspective · Real-time aggregated sentiment from the Live Feeds community