Norway’s Crown Prince Haakon is set to become king following the death of his father, King Harald V, taking over a monarchy widely regarded for its modern, modest and low-key approach to royal life.
At 53, Haakon enters the throne at a time when Norway’s royal family faces intense public scrutiny over a series of controversies involving members of the household.
The family has attracted headlines over Queen Sonja’s health, Crown Princess Mette-Marit’s past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, and the criminal case involving Mette-Marit’s son, Marius Borg Høiby, who was sentenced to four years in prison for rape.
Haakon’s sister, Princess Märtha Louise, has also drawn controversy over her marriage to American self-described shaman Durek Verrett and her unconventional public activities.
Despite the turbulence surrounding the royal household, Haakon has cultivated a more restrained public image and has championed issues including environmental protection, equality and the fight against racism and homophobia.
His accession will test whether the Norwegian monarchy can preserve its reputation for accessibility and modernity while navigating growing scrutiny of the royal family.
