Norwegian public figure in royal service
King Harald V of Norway has died at Oslo University Hospital at 06:35 local time on 28 August 2026. Crown Prince Haakon has automatically become King Haakon VIII. The palace has said the king had been treated since 17 August for haemolytic anaemia after weeks of declining health; flags are lowered and national mourning is beginning.
The 89-year-old monarch has been on sick leave and is admitted to Oslo University Hospital for a bacterial blood infection. Crown Prince Haakon is serving as regent as the palace confirms treatment is ongoing and his condition is stable.
Oslo district court has convicted Marius Borg Høiby, 29, on two counts of rape and multiple other offences and has sentenced him to four years in prison. He has been acquitted on two other rape charges, has been in custody since February and will have the right to appeal. The case has intensified scrutiny of Crown Princess Mette‑Marit and reduced public trust in Norway's monarchy.
The Crown Princess has undergone a lung transplant following a diagnosis of pulmonary fibrosis. She remains in hospital for recovery. Her son’s trial and Epstein-related scrutiny have intensified scrutiny of the royal family amid a broader crisis of public trust.