Norway's Haakon and Mette-Marit mark 25th wedding anniversary privately following lung transplant

Silver anniversary marked in private

Norway's Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit mark their 25th wedding anniversary on 25 August 2026 without public festivities. The planned nationwide celebrations were cancelled following medical procedures for the 53-year-old Crown Princess, who underwent a lung transplant in summer 2026. The milestone concludes a demanding period marked by medical treatment and controversy surrounding the Norwegian royal household. Instead of public state gatherings, the royal couple plans to spend their silver wedding anniversary in private at their family estate.

Chronic illness and Epstein correspondence

Crown Princess Mette-Marit has suffered for years from chronic pulmonary fibrosis, an incurable disease characterized by progressive lung tissue scarring, coughing, and acute shortness of breath. Her health deterioration required a donor organ transplant earlier this summer. In addition to her medical challenges, the royal family faced intense scrutiny at the beginning of 2026 following disclosures regarding Mette-Marit's historical friendship with Jeffrey Epstein. Disclosed email records showed regular communication, including discussions about Epstein's activities in Paris and royal weddings. In March 2026, Mette-Marit sat alongside Haakon for a televised NRK interview at Skaugum Castle to express regret over the relationship.

We have been together for over 25 years. And have built a relationship in which we stand firmly together. When you marry, that applies in good times and in bad.

Conviction of Marius Borg Høiby

The Norwegian monarchy has simultaneously navigated legal turmoil involving Mette-Marit's son, Marius Borg Høiby, whom Haakon raised alongside Crown Princess Ingrid Alexandra (22) and Prince Sverre Magnus (20). Marius entered the royal household as a two-year-old child but subsequently faced recurring struggles with drug abuse, excessive partying, and violent conduct. His legal troubles culminated in a criminal court trial in early 2026. In June 2026, a court handed Marius a four-year prison term for offenses that included two counts of rape under Norwegian law. The verdict is not yet legally final as judicial procedures continue.

Origins of the royal partnership

The couple first met in 1999 at a music festival before announcing their engagement following widespread public skepticism. Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby faced public criticism due to her background as a single mother with a history in the Oslo party scene. She subsequently addressed the public during an emotional press conference before the wedding, distancing herself from her past conduct. She later reflected on their initial meeting and Haakon's reaction to her circumstances.

He saw me. He understood me. He was curious. He held onto me.

On 25 August 2001, the couple wed at Oslo Cathedral, choosing to walk down the aisle together side by side rather than following traditional bridal procession customs. During the ceremony, Haakon delivered a speech directly to Mette-Marit.

I don't think I have ever been so weak and at the same time so strong as in your presence. I don't think I have ever been so full of love as at your side.