Crown Prince Haakon admits possible awareness of Epstein allegations against cousin
Crown Prince Haakon of Norway has broken years of silence on allegations linking his third cousin to Jeffrey Epstein, telling reporters on Tuesday that he "may have heard" about the accusations in 2011 but cannot recall specifics. The prince addressed the media during the Abel Prize ceremony in Oslo, marking his first public response to questions about the case since it resurfaced in recent months.
Haakon’s remarks came in response to repeated inquiries about his knowledge of the 2011 allegations against his relative, which involved claims of involvement with Epstein’s network. "It may be that I heard about it, but I don’t remember the details," he said, according to *Aftenposten* . The prince did not elaborate on whether he had discussed the matter with his cousin or other family members.
The Epstein allegations against the Norwegian royal’s third cousin first emerged in 2011 but gained renewed attention in 2026 amid broader scrutiny of Epstein’s associates. Norwegian media have pressed Haakon for clarity on his awareness of the case, particularly as the royal family faces increased public and political pressure to address the issue. The prince’s comments follow months of speculation about the palace’s handling of the matter, with critics arguing that the monarchy has been too opaque.
Haakon’s public appearance at the Abel Prize event was also notable for its rarity. The crown prince has taken on a heavier workload in recent months as his parents, King Harald and Queen Sonja, reduce their engagements due to age, and his wife, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, battles a serious illness, as reported by *Svenska Dagbladet* . The palace has not disclosed details of Mette-Marit’s condition, but her absence from public duties has fueled concerns about her health.
The Epstein allegations remain unresolved, with no public record of legal action taken against Haakon’s cousin. The case has reignited debates in Norway about the monarchy’s transparency and its relationship with the press, particularly as the royal family prepares for a generational transition. Haakon’s brief remarks on Tuesday did little to quell demands for further clarity, with opposition lawmakers already calling for a more detailed statement from the palace.
