Mette-Marit in Tears: The Most Heart-Wrenching Photos From the Funeral

On September 9, all eyes were also on Queen Mette-Marit. The 53-year-old is still recovering nearly three months after a lung transplant and had been struggling with complications just a few days ago.

Here we see Mette-Marit, clearly shaken. She has been through a difficult time: her eldest son’s trial, her lung transplant, and now the death of her father-in-law, the King of Norway.

The funeral also posed risks for Mette-Marit: An infection so soon after her surgery could be fatal. For this reason, extra precautions were taken.

Here you can see the tears in the royal couple's eyes. Mette-Marit and Haakon are saying goodbye.

On September 9, 2026, Mette-Marit of Norway walks through the streets of Oslo in a black mourning cloak as the funeral procession accompanies the late King Harald to the cathedral. A red, white, and blue ribbon with a medallion gleams on her lapel—a sign of her special bond with the late monarch. Her solemn expression beneath her veil leaves no doubt as to the gravity of the moment.

During the funeral procession, a quiet exchange of glances takes place between mother and daughter: Mette-Marit of Norway and Princess Ingrid Alexandra are both dressed in traditional Norwegian court mourning attire, complete with a veiled hat and a ribbon of an order. This brief moment of connection is particularly touching amid the strict protocol. It shows just how deeply King Harald’s death has affected the entire family.

Haakon and Mette-Marit of Norway stand close together at the wrought-iron railing of the palace balcony, shortly after laying King Harald to rest. The crowd below cheers for Haakon, while Mette-Marit remains calm and composed at his side. Her presence signals continuity in a time of upheaval.

On September 9, 2026, the new royal couple makes its first public appearance on the balcony of the Royal Palace in Oslo: Haakon of Norway in a dark navy uniform and Mette-Marit in a black mourning dress with a pearl necklace. A few hours after King Harald’s funeral, Haakon waves to the waiting crowd while his wife rests her hand on his arm. The moment marks the beginning of a new era for the Norwegian monarchy.

Through the sheer veil, Mette-Marit of Norway’s stony gaze is hard to miss as she accompanies King Harald’s casket to the cathedral. The three-strand pearl necklace and the royal order of merit attest to her official status during the ceremony. Her downcast gaze reveals the full weight of the loss.

With a gentle gesture, Mette-Marit supports her husband, Haakon of Norway, who waves to the crowd from the palace balcony shortly after King Harald's funeral.