Norway royals release unseen anniversary photos featuring Marius Borg Høiby after rape conviction




Norway’s Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit are today marking a quarter of a century of marriage, having wed at Oslo Cathedral on August 25, 2001.The royal couple chose to celebrate the milestone by releasing a collection of previously unseen photographs from their personal archives – including one of their son, Marius Borg Høiby.Among the images shared were snapshots taken during their honeymoon on Long Island in the US, offering a rare glimpse into the early days of their partnership.The Norwegian royal household published the pictures alongside a post bearing the simple caption “grateful.”A separate official photograph, depicting the pair standing together in a garden, was also issued to commemorate the occasion, with the royal house extending its congratulations on their silver wedding anniversary.One image in particular drew attention: the fourth photograph in the series showed a young Høiby, then just four years old, perched on the Crown Prince’s shoulders as the pair enjoyed a swim in the sea.He is Mette-Marit’s son from a prior relationship and holds no royal title himself.Norway’s Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit are today marking a quarter of a century of marriage, having wed at Oslo Cathedral on August 25, 2001 | INSTAGRAM: @DETNORSKEKONGEHUSOne image in particular drew attention: the fourth photograph in the series showed a young Høiby, then just four years old, perched on the Crown Prince’s shoulders as the pair enjoyed a swim in the sea | INSTAGRAM: @DETNORSKEKONGEHUSHis appearance in an official post from the Palace is striking, given the controversies that have engulfed the family in recent months.The 29-year-old was found guilty of two counts of rape following a widely reported trial that concluded earlier this year.He received a four-year prison sentence in June after a court heard he had denied some of the serious charges against him.Høiby participated in the court proceedings via video link and has been subject to house arrest at the Skaugum estate since July, while his legal team pursues an appeal through the Norwegian judicial system.Marius Borg Høiby was found guilty of two counts of rape following a widely reported trial that concluded earlier this year | GETTYCrown Prince Haakon addressed the matter publicly in remarks to NRK, stating: “It has been challenging and difficult for everyone.”For our part, we will continue to carry out our duties. Everyone involved in the case has found it challenging and difficult.”Prior to the sentencing, both Haakon and Mette-Marit were photographed visiting him in custody.When questioned by journalists before the trial began, the heir to the Norwegian throne stressed that his sympathies lay primarily with the victims, while affirming of his stepson: “We love him, of course, he’s an important part of our family.”The anniversary also arrives at a difficult juncture for the Norwegian monarchy more broadly.King Harald, 89, is currently receiving treatment at the National Hospital, with mounting concern surrounding what has been described as his “deteriorating” health.The Norwegian Palace issued an urgent statement confirming: “His Majesty the King’s health deteriorated over the weekend. “The King is receiving antibiotics for a bacterial infection in his blood, and has responded to this treatment.”The royal household added: “His condition is stable. His Majesty will remain at Oslo University Hospital (Rikshospitalet) and is on sick leave until further notice.”