Norway, a country often celebrated for its egalitarian values and transparent governance, is now facing a royal scandal that has shaken its society and drawn international attention. At the center is Marius Borg Høiby, the eldest son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit and stepson to Crown Prince Haakon, who is the heir to the Norwegian throne. After a months-long police investigation, Høiby has been charged with multiple counts of rape, sexual assault, bodily harm, and other offenses. The case has stunned the Norwegian public and have raised questions about the future of the royal family.
The Royal Family and Marius Borg Høiby’s Place
Crown Princess Mette-Marit was a single mother and a waitress before marrying Crown Prince Haakon in 2001. Her son, Marius Borg Høiby, was four years old at the time. The marriage was initially controversial, as Mette-Marit’s background and her son’s paternity were seen as unconventional for a royal union. However, the family eventually won over the public with their openness and relatability.
Marius, while raised within the royal household, has never held a royal title or performed official duties. He is not in the line of succession, as Norway’s monarchy is strictly hereditary through royal blood. Crown Princess Mette-Marit and Crown Prince Haakon have two other children: Princess Ingrid Alexandra, second in line to the throne, and Prince Sverre Magnus, third in line. Despite his unofficial status, Marius has grown up in the public eye and has often been seen at royal events and family gatherings.
The Charges and Investigation
The current investigation began in August 2024, when Høiby was arrested on suspicion of bodily harm and property damage. As police delved deeper, more allegations surfaced, leading to further arrests in September and November. Authorities say their work included interviewing numerous witnesses and examining extensive digital evidence, such as text messages and social media content.
The charges against Høiby now include one count of rape with intercourse, two counts of rape without intercourse, four counts of sexually offensive behavior, abuse in close relationships, and harassment of a police officer. Some charges related to violence against another woman have been dropped due to statute of limitations or lack of evidence. The police have emphasized that their investigation has been impartial and thorough, treating Høiby as they would any other citizen.
Høiby’s Response and the Royal Family’s Position
Marius Borg Høiby has admitted to some wrongdoing—specifically violence and property damage during an incident while under the influence of alcohol and cocaine. He has apologized for these actions and has said he will seek treatment for substance abuse. However, through his lawyer, he denies the more serious allegations related to sexual abuse and violence, and has cooperated with police throughout the investigation.
The royal family has refrained from making public comments about the case, emphasizing respect for the judicial process and the principle that everyone is equal before the law. Their silence reflects both the gravity of the allegations and a commitment to letting the legal system operate independently. For many Norwegians, the case is a test of the country’s values—particularly the belief that no one, regardless of status or connection, is above the law.
What Lies Ahead
Prosecutors are expected to decide in the coming months whether to formally indict Høiby and proceed to trial. The case has sparked national debate about privilege, accountability, and the pressures faced by those connected to public institutions. As the legal process unfolds, Norwegians—and the world—will be watching closely to see how the justice system handles this high-profile case and what it means for the future of the royal family and public trust in Norway’s institutions.
The outcome will not only determine Høiby’s fate but could also have lasting implications for the reputation and role of Norway’s royal family in a modern, transparent society.