Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has issued a formal and public apology for her connections to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. The statement, released on Friday, addresses her ties to the financier and expresses deep regret for the situation.
Princess Takes Responsibility for Association
In her apology, Crown Princess Mette-Marit explicitly acknowledged her failure to investigate Epstein's background more thoroughly. She stated that she should have realised sooner the nature of his character, particularly given his criminal history.
The princess emphasised that she must take full responsibility for her poor judgment in maintaining any contact with Epstein. She described the entire episode as simply embarrassing, highlighting her personal remorse over the association.
Apology Extended to Norwegian Royal Family
Crown Princess Mette-Marit specifically apologised to King Harald V and Queen Sonja of Norway for the difficult position her actions have created. She expressed concern about the situation she has put the royal family in, acknowledging the potential damage to their reputation.
This public apology comes at a particularly sensitive time for the Norwegian monarchy, as it faces increased scrutiny from both national and international observers.
Revelations from Epstein Document Release
The apology follows the latest release of files concerning Jeffrey Epstein, which revealed extensive email correspondence between the crown princess and the financier. These communications occurred after Epstein's 2008 conviction for child sex crimes.
Documents further indicate that Crown Princess Mette-Marit used one of Epstein's properties in Palm Beach, Florida, during 2013. These revelations have raised questions about the extent of their relationship during this period.
Historical Context and Previous Statements
This is not the first time Crown Princess Mette-Marit has addressed her connection to Epstein. In 2019, she previously expressed regret about having had contact with him, though the current statement represents a more comprehensive and formal apology.
The timing of these latest revelations coincides with other challenges facing the Norwegian royal family, including legal proceedings involving the crown princess's son, Marius Borg Hoiby.
Broader Implications and Response
The situation highlights the ongoing global impact of the Epstein case, which continues to affect individuals and institutions years after his death in prison in 2019. Epstein's death was officially ruled a suicide while he awaited trial on sex trafficking charges.
Royal observers note that such public apologies from senior members of European royal families remain relatively rare, making this statement particularly significant within diplomatic and royal circles.
The Norwegian royal household has not issued additional comments beyond the crown princess's personal statement, maintaining their traditional approach of allowing family members to address personal matters directly.
