Princess Mette-Marit of Norway Facing Critical Illness as Son Is Released From Prison

Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway has been placed on a waiting list for a lung transplant following a significant deterioration in her health, according to the royal household. This medical crisis has led to a court-ordered release for her son, Marius Borg Høiby, who is currently in custody facing rape charges, so that he may visit his mother.

The princess, 52, has suspended her official duties to focus on her treatment. She suffers from a rare form of pulmonary fibrosis, an incurable lung disease diagnosed in 2018. The condition creates scar tissue that stiffens the lungs, making it difficult for oxygen to enter the bloodstream and causing severe breathing difficulties.

The royal household reported that Mette-Marit’s condition has worsened significantly over the last six months. In a news conference held on June 6, 2026, Prof. Are Holm, a lung specialist at Oslo University Hospital, provided details on the decline.

According to Prof. Holm, there has been a significant increase in scar tissue in the princess’s lungs over the past year. He further noted that lung function tests indicate her capacity has declined considerably in the last three months alone, describing the deterioration as dangerous.

This health crisis is the latest in a series of personal and public challenges for the princess. In December, Mette-Marit told the public broadcaster NRK that the illness had progressed faster than I’d hoped, noting that she could no longer engage in hiking or skiing with her husband, Crown Prince Haakon.

The medical emergency has intersected with the ongoing legal proceedings involving her son from a previous relationship, Marius Borg Høiby. Høiby is currently facing a rape trial, charges which he denies.

Following the news of his mother’s critical health, Høiby requested release from custody. Norwegian courts have since ordered his release to allow him to visit the princess. However, the prosecution has appealed this decision to keep him in custody.

The legal situation for Høiby is complex. A February 3, 2026, report from Deutsche Welle indicated that he had previously invoked substance abuse and mental health issues during his legal battles, though officials noted such claims cannot serve as a shield against the seriousness of the charges.

Mette-Marit’s struggle with pulmonary fibrosis has been a recurring theme in her public life since 2018, frequently forcing her to take sick leave or reduce her royal obligations. This current decline coincides with previous public scrutiny regarding her past association with Jeffrey Epstein.

The royal household has confirmed that the operation will take place as soon as a suitable donor becomes available. Until then, the princess remains on the transplant list while her official duties stay suspended.