Mette-Marit has said she was “manipulated” by Jeffrey Epstein, as she addressed growing scrutiny over their past relationship in a televised interview.
Speaking to Norwegian broadcaster NRK, the crown princess expressed deep regret about the association, acknowledging that she failed to fully examine his background despite early warning signs. Her name had appeared multiple times in documents released earlier this year by the U.S. Department of Justice, which detailed their connection and triggered public debate in Norway about her future as queen.
“I wish I had never met him,” she said, adding that she had been “manipulated and deceived.” She maintained that their relationship was purely platonic and denied any inappropriate involvement.
Epstein, who pleaded guilty in 2008 to soliciting a minor and died in 2019 while awaiting trial on trafficking charges, had remained in contact with her for several years. Previously released emails indicated she was aware of concerns about his past as early as 2011, noting at the time that his history “didn’t look too good.”
During the interview, Mette-Marit described some of her communications with Epstein as “embarrassing” and said she eventually cut ties after certain encounters made her uncomfortable, though she declined to elaborate.
Appearing alongside her husband, Haakon, she stressed that attention should remain on Epstein’s victims, saying they are the ones who deserve justice.
The interview marks her first public response since details of her connection to Epstein became widely known earlier this year. The controversy adds to ongoing personal challenges, including her chronic lung condition and legal troubles involving her son, Marius Borg Høiby, who is facing serious criminal charges.
Despite the backlash, the crown princess said she remains committed to her royal duties and intends to continue supporting the monarchy, health permitting, expressing confidence in the institution and in her husband’s leadership.
