COPENHAGEN, Denmark –
Princess Martha Louise, daughter of Norway’s King Harald, said Tuesday she will no longer officially represent the Norwegian royal family following “many questions concerning me and the role of my fiance.” .”
The 50-year-old princess, who is fourth in line to the Norwegian throne, became engaged in June to Durek Verrett, an American who describes herself as a magician and healer on her website.
At least one foundation where Martha Louise served as a patron later ended the relationship with the princess.
“I have decided that at this time, I will no longer carry out the official duties of the royal family,” she said in a statement released by the palace, adding that the decision The decision was made in coordination with her parents “to create peace around the royal household.”
The princess will retain her title, but the palace said she has informed organizations where she still serves as patron that she will be stepping down from the role, which provides a framework for her official duties.
Norwegian media have accused Martha Louise and Verrett of allegedly using their royal titles for commercial gain along with promoting alternative healthcare methods.
The palace statement said the couple would “clarify the distinction between their private activities and the royal family” and would not use the title of princess or refer to the royal family on social media. or commercial activities.
Verrett will have no title or represent the Norwegian royal family when he and Martha Louise marry, according to the statement. According to Norwegian media, the couple, who have been together since May 2019, will attend family-related occasions and events, where it is customary for the royals to participate.
Martha Louise has three daughters from her first marriage that ended in 2016. According to Norwegian media, she plans to move to California to live with them.
In addition to her royal duties, the princess wrote books in which she claimed to have contact with angels.
Her brother, Crown Prince Haakon, is the heir to the throne.
A poll published by Norwegian newspaper Dagbladet last month found that 68% of respondents said they wanted to keep the monarchy. When Norwegian broadcaster NRK asked the same question in 2017, support for the royal family stood at 81%.
