Norwegian Royal Family Faces Unprecedented Scandal as Crown Princess's Son Stands Trial
The Norwegian royal family finds itself at the centre of a deeply troubling legal drama this week as Marius Borg Høiby, the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit, faces trial on multiple serious charges. The case, which includes allegations of rape, acts of violence, and making death threats, has sent shockwaves through a nation that traditionally holds its monarchy in high regard and deep affection.
Comprehensive Charges and Potential Consequences
Høiby, aged 29, will appear before the Oslo district court in a trial commencing on Tuesday, following his indictment in August 2025 after an extensive investigation. The indictment presents a comprehensive list of 38 separate counts, creating what legal observers describe as one of the most significant cases involving a figure connected to the Norwegian establishment in recent memory.
The charges span several years and include multiple serious allegations:
- Four alleged rapes occurring between 2018 and November 2024
- Acts of violence and threats against a former partner between summer 2022 and autumn 2023
- Two alleged acts of violence against a subsequent partner
- Violations of a restraining order
- Transportation of 3.5 kilograms of marijuana
- Additional charges including making death threats and various traffic violations
Prosecutors have indicated that if convicted on these multiple charges, Høiby could potentially face a prison sentence of up to ten years. The trial is expected to be lengthy, with proceedings anticipated to continue until mid-March, ensuring sustained media attention and public scrutiny.
Royal Connections and Legal Position
Marius Borg Høiby occupies a unique position within Norwegian society as the son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit from a previous relationship and stepson of Crown Prince Haakon, the heir to the Norwegian throne. Despite these familial connections, Høiby holds no royal title and undertakes no official duties on behalf of the monarchy.
His legal troubles have been developing over an extended period, with repeated arrests occurring throughout 2024 on various allegations of wrongdoing. Throughout this period, he has remained free pending trial, though under increasing public and media scrutiny.
Legal Defence and Royal Response
Defence attorney Petar Sekulic has stated clearly that his client "denies all charges of sexual abuse, as well as the majority of the charges regarding violence." Sekulic further indicated that Høiby "will present a detailed account of his version of events before the court," suggesting a vigorous defence will be mounted against the comprehensive allegations.
In a rare public statement addressing the matter directly, Crown Prince Haakon confirmed last week that neither he nor Crown Princess Mette-Marit plan to attend courtroom proceedings. The royal house has stated it does not intend to comment during the trial, maintaining a position of respectful distance from the judicial process.
Haakon emphasised that Høiby "is not part of the royal house" and that, as a Norwegian citizen, he possesses "the same responsibilities and rights as all others." The Crown Prince expressed confidence that all parties involved would ensure the trial proceeds "as orderly, proper and fair as possible."
Public Reaction and Royal Standing
The case has created what royal expert Tove Taalesen of Nettavisen newspaper describes as "a shocking one and a half years for the Norwegian people because we really love our royal family." She notes the particular affection Norwegians hold for King Harald, whom many regard with almost familial warmth.
Despite the troubling nature of the allegations, recent polling suggests the monarchy retains substantial public support. Ms Taalesen observes that while there may be future consequences, "for now, polls show that we still believe in King Harald and Queen Sonja and we feel we are compassionate also for what the royal family are going through."
She acknowledges that Norwegians "definitely have different opinions about the different members of the royal family," but maintains that "in general, I think we still have sympathy for the crown prince and the crown princess."
Broader Context of Royal Challenges
The Høiby case represents the most serious but not the only source of challenging publicity for the Norwegian royals in recent times. Princess Märtha Louise, sister of Crown Prince Haakon, has faced repeated criticism regarding her business ventures and personal choices.
In 2024, around the same period that Høiby's legal troubles were emerging in public consciousness, Princess Märtha Louise married American self-professed shaman Durek Verrett, a union that generated considerable media attention and mixed public reaction. These combined developments have created an unusually turbulent period for a monarchy traditionally enjoying widespread popularity and stable public perception.
As the trial commences, Norway watches with a mixture of concern for the alleged victims, curiosity about the judicial process, and anxiety about the potential implications for a royal family that has long represented stability and national unity. The proceedings will unfold against this complex backdrop of legal seriousness, royal connection, and public sentiment.
