Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has disclosed feeling manipulated and deceived by billionaire sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in a recent interview. The princess expressed regret over her association with Epstein after their connection was brought to light.
Emails linking the crown princess to Epstein surfaced, suggesting a long-standing friendship between them. In a heartfelt interview at the royal residence in Skaugum, Mette-Marit, accompanied by her husband Crown Prince Haakon, admitted to feeling emotionally affected by the situation.
Expressing her remorse, Mette-Marit emphasized the need for her to have been more cautious about Epstein’s background. She acknowledged her vulnerability to manipulation and deception, expressing deep regret for ever crossing paths with him.
Highlighting her ignorance of Epstein’s criminal history during their friendship, Mette-Marit revealed that she was not aware of his predatory behavior at the time. Recalling a troubling incident during a visit to Epstein’s Palm Beach residence in 2013, the princess confided in her husband about feeling unsettled.
Despite the discomforting experience, Mette-Marit continued to keep in touch with Epstein for a period. She admitted to being overly trusting and inclined to see the good in people, but eventually decided to sever direct contact with Epstein due to such unsettling encounters.
The princess’s decision to address the situation publicly follows mounting pressure and scrutiny, including calls from Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre for explanations regarding her extensive email correspondence with Epstein and her stay at his Florida property.
Meanwhile, on the final day of the interview, the princess’s son, Marius Borg Høiby, concluded his rape trial. Marius, 29, pleaded not guilty to four rape charges but admitted guilt to various driving offenses, a drug-related offense, breaching a restraining order, and partially to threats and assault charges.
The Norwegian royal family refrained from attending any part of the trial, issuing a statement expressing concern for all individuals affected by the matter. Despite his royal status, State Attorney Sturla Henriksbø emphasized that Marius would not receive preferential treatment under the law and could face up to a decade in prison if convicted.