Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit has spoken publicly for the first time following renewed scrutiny over her past relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, saying she felt 'manipulated and deceived' by the late US financier. The remarks come amid pressure on the Norwegian royal family after newly released Epstein-related files brought details of their past contact back into public focus.
In a televised interview with NRK, the Crown Princess expressed deep regret over her association with Epstein, stating she wished she had never met him. The interview marks her first extended comments in weeks, following growing political and public pressure to address the revelations.
Regret and Responsibility Over Epstein Connection
Mette-Marit acknowledged she should have taken more care in assessing Epstein's background before maintaining contact with him. She said she takes responsibility for failing to properly investigate his history, adding that she now recognises the seriousness of the situation.
'I feel so manipulated, and when you are manipulated, you don't realise it from the start,' she said during the interview. She also expressed concern for Epstein's victims, saying they deserved justice and had not yet received it.
The Crown Princess admitted to 'poor judgement' in her dealings with Epstein, following earlier acknowledgements made after the initial emergence of her connections in 2019.
Details of Contact and Private Correspondence
According to reports and released documents, Mette-Marit exchanged hundreds of emails with Jeffrey Epstein between 2011 and 2014. She also stayed at Epstein's residence in Florida while he was not present.
In a message from 2011, she wrote that she had searched for information about him and agreed that he 'did not look too good.' Despite this, she maintains she did not fully understand the extent of his criminal behaviour at the time.
The Crown Princess has stated that Epstein was a private contact and that she did not disclose the relationship to the royal household or the foreign ministry.
Claims of Manipulation and Lack of Awareness
During the interview, Mette-Marit insisted she was unaware that Epstein was a convicted sex offender or predator at the time of their contact. She described him as a 'bad guy' but said she did not know the full extent of his crimes.
She added that she is naturally trusting and tends to assume the best in people, which she now sees as a mistake in this case. She also admitted she should have warned others about Epstein but failed to do so.
A moment during her 2013 stay at Epstein's Palm Beach home made her feel uneasy, she said. She did not provide further details, but confirmed she contacted her husband, Crown Prince Haakon, during that time.
Pressure Mounts on Norwegian Royal Family
The Crown Princess's decision to speak follows mounting scrutiny from both the public and political figures, including Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre. Her previous silence drew criticism as questions grew over the extent of her relationship with Epstein.
Royal commentators have suggested that the interview raises further questions rather than resolving concerns. Royal correspondent Tove Taalesen told BBC that the explanation provided lacks clarity, particularly regarding her continued contact with Epstein after the 2013 incident.
The revelations have intensified debate over the expectations placed on members of the Norwegian royal family and the balance between private life and public accountability.
Health Concerns and Future Role
Mette-Marit also addressed her ongoing health condition, stating that her ability to continue in her royal role depends on her health. She suffers from pulmonary fibrosis, a serious lung disease that affects breathing.
The interview was limited in length due to her condition, and her health was visibly affecting her during the recording. The Crown Princess said she would like to continue supporting her husband, Crown Prince Haakon, if her health allows.
Royal Unity Amid Ongoing Controversy
Crown Prince Haakon appeared alongside his wife during the interview and expressed support for her. He emphasised their long-standing partnership and commitment to their shared role within the monarchy.
Despite the controversy surrounding the Epstein files, the royal couple indicated they remain focused on fulfilling their responsibilities as the future leaders of the Norwegian royal family.
