Norway's Crown Princess Mette-Marit has broken her silence regarding her past relationship with the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, expressing deep regret over her connections with him during an emotional interview with national broadcaster NRK. Speaking with tears in her eyes, she stated, I feel so manipulated, and when you are manipulated, you don't realise it from the start.
The interview comes following the release of extensive files detailing Epstein's criminal activities and his connections with various public figures, including Mette-Marit herself. The crown princess, who maintained contact with Epstein between 2011 and 2014, expressed her desire that she had never met him, emphasizing the need for justice for Epstein's victims.
In her 20-minute appearance, she admitted to having stayed at Epstein's residence in Florida and exchanged numerous emails with him. Acknowledging her lapse in judgment, she remarked, I take responsibility for not checking his background more carefully.
Despite facing significant scrutiny from the media and political figures, including Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Mette-Marit stood by her statement that she did not know Epstein was a predator. She recalled feeling uncomfortable during her stay at his home and recognized the signs of his manipulative behavior.
The crown princess, who has previously battled health issues, underscored her commitment to her role but acknowledged that her future contributions would depend on her health. This interview comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Norwegian royal family's public image, particularly in light of the legal challenges faced by her son in a separate case.
Royal analysts point out that despite the attempt to address these sensitive issues, Mette-Marit’s evasive responses have left many questions unanswered, raising concerns about transparency within the royal family.
The interview comes following the release of extensive files detailing Epstein's criminal activities and his connections with various public figures, including Mette-Marit herself. The crown princess, who maintained contact with Epstein between 2011 and 2014, expressed her desire that she had never met him, emphasizing the need for justice for Epstein's victims.
In her 20-minute appearance, she admitted to having stayed at Epstein's residence in Florida and exchanged numerous emails with him. Acknowledging her lapse in judgment, she remarked, I take responsibility for not checking his background more carefully.
Despite facing significant scrutiny from the media and political figures, including Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Mette-Marit stood by her statement that she did not know Epstein was a predator. She recalled feeling uncomfortable during her stay at his home and recognized the signs of his manipulative behavior.
The crown princess, who has previously battled health issues, underscored her commitment to her role but acknowledged that her future contributions would depend on her health. This interview comes amid heightened scrutiny of the Norwegian royal family's public image, particularly in light of the legal challenges faced by her son in a separate case.
Royal analysts point out that despite the attempt to address these sensitive issues, Mette-Marit’s evasive responses have left many questions unanswered, raising concerns about transparency within the royal family.
