The Norwegian royal family has published a new photo for Crown Prince Haakon's 53rd birthday, showing the son of King Harald (89) and Queen Sonja (89) smiling at the camera. The worries of recent months are not visible on the Norwegian royal. A new statement about his wife Mette-Marit (52) also sounds hopeful.
In the photo, the heir to the throne wears a dark blue suit, a white shirt, and a blue-striped tie. The caption read: "Happy birthday to His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon, who turns 53 today." On the official palace website, it was also announced: "The celebration will take place in a private setting."
"Fortunately, things are improving"
For Haakon, his special day falls during an eventful time. In mid-June, his wife received a lung transplant. Last week, she was able to leave the hospital and has been recovering at home since then. "Fortunately, things are improving, thank you", the now 53-year-old said on Sunday during a visit to Krokstadelva. Despite his optimism, he also emphasized according to "VG": "But this is just the beginning of quite a long road to recovery."
The palace had already announced that Mette-Marit will not attend any appointments in the coming months. Haakon will also adjust his schedule according to his wife's condition and make appropriate arrangements to be with her when needed. In principle, however, Haakon, who had reduced his duties in June out of consideration for his wife, will continue to fulfill his royal obligations.
Another source of concern was Marius Borg Høiby (29), Mette-Marit's eldest son from a previous relationship. He was sentenced to four years in prison on June 15 for two assaults and violence in close relationships. Since Høiby has appealed parts of the verdict, it is not yet legally binding. On July 14 - the same day his mother came home from the hospital - he was allowed to leave prison. He may remain under house arrest with electronic monitoring at his house in Skaugum for four weeks. The prosecution has decided not to appeal the district court's decision. This allows Marius to serve the remainder of his pretrial detention with an ankle monitor in the company of his loved ones.
In August, Haakon and Mette-Marit can celebrate their silver wedding anniversary
Whether he will be present at today's private celebration is not known. The crown prince couple has more reasons to celebrate in the coming weeks: On August 19, Mette-Marit will also turn 53 years old, and on August 25, their wedding anniversary marks 25 years.
