2 min readThe Norwegian royal family has gathered at King Harald’s bedside at Oslo University Hospital. Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, and the King’s sister Princess Astrid were among those photographed arriving at the hospital today. Marius Borg Høiby, Mette-Marit’s son from a previous relationship who is currently under house arrest and wearing an ankle bracelet following a rape conviction in June that he has appealed, was also seen at the hospital, per AFP.
Local media also reported that all royal engagements have been canceled until further notice. “His Majesty the King’s health condition is extremely serious,” the Royal Palace said in a brief statement. Queen Sonja had already quietly stepped back from several engagements earlier this week, but Thursday’s developments marked a more significant shift, with Crown Prince Haakon also canceling his schedule.
Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre canceled a planned trip to Germany following the update. “I stand together with the entire country as we now send our warmest thoughts to the king and the rest of the royal family,” he told the media. “I am confident that the king is being well taken care of, and that he is receiving good and compassionate treatment.” Norway’s bishops have also cut short a visit to Rome, where they met with Pope Leo, to return home. Members of the public have begun laying flowers and candles outside the Royal Palace in Oslo.
King Harald, 89, was hospitalized last week following complications during treatment for hemolytic anemia, a blood disease. The palace confirmed over the weekend that his condition had deteriorated further and that he was being treated for a bacterial blood infection.
Rachel King (she/her) is a news writer at Town & Country. Before joining T&C, she spent nearly a decade as an editor at Fortune. Her work covering travel and lifestyle has appeared in Forbes, Observer, Robb Report, Cruise Critic, and Cool Hunting, among others. Originally from San Francisco, she lives in New York with her wife, their daughter, and a precocious labradoodle. Follow her on Instagram at .
