The Norwegian king’s eldest child, Princess Märtha Louise, is set to marry American self-professed shaman Durek Verret in southern Norway this Saturday. The couple's upcoming wedding has stirred controversy amidst criticism and diminishing support for the Scandinavian royals. Märtha Louise, who is fourth in line to the Norwegian throne, announced in 2022 that she would no longer officially represent the royal house to be closer to her American fiancé.
Princess Märtha Louise, known for her belief in communicating with angels, will wed Verret, who claims to be a sixth-generation shaman from California. The couple has faced scrutiny for their alternative beliefs and unconventional actions. Despite being engaged in 2022, Verret will not hold any royal titles or official duties post-marriage.
In a 2019 agreement, Märtha Louise and Verret vowed not to exploit her royal connections for commercial gain. However, earlier this year, the princess faced backlash for labeling gin bottles with her title for a brand launch, which she later amended following King Harald V's directive against profiting from her royal status.
The couple also sold their wedding photo rights to a British magazine and film rights to Netflix, sparking criticism from Norwegian media for deviating from local practices. The royal family has been further embroiled in scandal as Marius Borg Høiby, Crown Princess Mette-Marit's stepson, faced charges of causing bodily harm and criminal damage.
The recent controversies have led to a decline in support for the Norwegian monarchy, with a political party advocating for a constitutional change to abolish the monarchy. The proposal, expected to be introduced next month, faces uncertain prospects of gaining broader legislative support.
The royal wedding will take place in Geiranger, Norway, with members of the Norwegian and Swedish royal families in attendance. The ceremony will be a private event, with reality stars, media influencers, and TV personalities among the guests. Geiranger, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will provide a picturesque backdrop for the nuptials.
Princess Märtha Louise, who has three children from her previous marriage, will tie the knot with Verret in a ceremony officiated by the Norwegian Church. The event will be attended by King Harald, Queen Sonja, Crown Prince Haakon, and Crown Princess Mette-Marit, along with other royal dignitaries.
Despite the controversies surrounding the royal family, the wedding is expected to be a grand affair, symbolizing the union of two individuals from diverse backgrounds amidst a backdrop of scenic beauty in southern Norway.
