Full Breakdown
Crown Princess Mette-Marit Faces Scrutiny Over Epstein Correspondence
2/1/2026, 11:28:40 PM
Extensive Contact with Jeffrey Epstein
Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has come under renewed scrutiny following the release of documents by the U.S. Department of Justice that detail her extensive correspondence with the late Jeffrey Epstein, a convicted sex offender. The newly unsealed files reportedly contain nearly 1,000 mentions of Mette-Marit, with emails exchanged between 2011 and 2014, during which time she was already married to Crown Prince Haakon. The revelations coincide with the upcoming trial of her son, Marius Borg Høiby, who faces multiple charges, including rape.
Content of the Correspondence
The emails between Mette-Marit and Epstein reveal a personal and informal tone, with the Crown Princess referring to Epstein as "very charming" and discussing family matters. In one email, she inquired whether it was inappropriate to suggest wallpaper featuring "two naked women" for her then-15-year-old son, to which Epstein responded with caution. The correspondence also included discussions about Epstein's "wife hunt" in Paris, where Mette-Marit remarked that the city was "good for adultery" and suggested that "Scandis are better wife material."
Official Statements and Apologies
In light of the revelations, Mette-Marit issued a public apology, expressing regret for her association with Epstein. She stated, "I showed poor judgment and I deeply regret having had any contact with Epstein. It is simply embarrassing." She acknowledged her responsibility for not investigating Epstein's background more thoroughly, despite having previously mentioned in an email that her online search of him "didn't look too good." The Crown Princess also expressed her "deep sympathy and solidarity" with Epstein's victims.
Criticism and Public Reaction
The timing of these revelations has drawn significant public criticism, particularly as Mette-Marit’s son prepares for trial. Historian Ole-Jørgen Schulsrud-Hansen noted that the correspondence gives the impression of a close friendship, raising questions about the judgment of both Mette-Marit and the royal advisors surrounding her. Critics have pointed out that palace officials should have intervened to prevent her from maintaining contact with Epstein, especially given his known criminal history.
Context of the Royal Family's Challenges
The scrutiny surrounding Mette-Marit comes at a particularly challenging time for the Norwegian royal family. Marius Borg Høiby is set to stand trial for 38 charges, including rape and assault, which could result in a lengthy prison sentence if he is convicted. The royal couple has chosen not to attend the trial, with Crown Prince Haakon stating that Mette-Marit would be away on a private trip during this period.
Conclusion
The release of the Epstein files has not only implicated Crown Princess Mette-Marit but has also reignited discussions about the responsibilities of public figures in their associations. As the royal family navigates these controversies, the implications for Mette-Marit’s future role as a potential queen remain uncertain.
