Norway's Crown Princess Reveals She Was 'Manipulated' by Epstein

Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit has stated that she was 'manipulated' by Jeffrey Epstein, addressing concerns regarding her past relationship with the disgraced financier during a televised appearance.

In an interview with Norwegian broadcaster NRK, the crown princess conveyed her regret about their association, admitting to a failure in thoroughly vetting his background despite red flags. Her name appeared multiple times in documents released earlier this year by the U.S. Department of Justice, which highlighted their connection and ignited public discussions in Norway regarding her future role as queen.

'I wish I had never met him,' she remarked, adding that she felt 'manipulated and deceived.' She denied any inappropriate nature to their connection, characterizing it solely as a friendly relationship.

Epstein, who pleaded guilty in 2008 to charges of soliciting a minor and died in 2019 while awaiting trial on trafficking allegations, had maintained communication with the princess for several years. Previously released emails indicated that she had acknowledged concerns regarding his past as early as 2011, noting that his history 'didn’t look too good.'

During the discussion, Mette-Marit described some of her past exchanges with Epstein as 'embarrassing' and confirmed that she eventually distanced herself from him following incidents that made her uncomfortable, though she opted not to share specific details.

Accompanied by her husband, Haakon, she stressed that attention should center on Epstein’s victims, stating they are the ones deserving justice.

This interview represents her first public commentary since her connections to Epstein became widely public knowledge earlier this year. The controversy has compounded existing personal difficulties, including a chronic lung disease and legal matters involving her son, Marius Borg Høiby, who is facing serious criminal charges.

Despite the criticism she has faced, the crown princess affirmed her dedication to her role and intends to continue supporting the monarchy, offering assurance in the institution and her husband's leadership, health permitting.