Updated: August 28, 2026
The Norwegian royal family has long stood out for its blend of tradition and modern approachability. With the recent passing of King Harald V on August 28, 2026, attention naturally turns to his two children and the grandchildren who now carry the monarchy forward. King Harald and Queen Sonja raised a close-knit family that balances public duty with private life. Here’s a clear look at the next generation.
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King Harald and Queen Sonja’s Two Children
King Harald V and Queen Sonja, married since 1968, had two children. Their daughter, Princess Märtha Louise, was born on September 22, 1971. Their son, Haakon (now King Haakon), arrived on July 20, 1973.
Although Märtha Louise is the older sibling, the succession rules in place at the time of their births gave precedence to the male heir. Haakon became Crown Prince and has now succeeded his father as king. The 1990 change to absolute primogeniture applies only to those born later, which is why Princess Ingrid Alexandra is set to become Norway’s first reigning queen in centuries.
Both siblings grew up at the Skaugum estate near Oslo. Their parents deliberately gave them a relatively ordinary upbringing by royal standards, encouraging outdoor life, education, and independence.
Princess Märtha Louise and Her Family
Princess Märtha Louise has carved an independent path. She no longer carries out official royal duties and focuses on her own projects and family. She was married to author Ari Behn from 2002 until their divorce in 2017. The couple had three daughters:
- Maud Angelica Behn (born April 29, 2003)
- Leah Isadora Behn (born April 8, 2005)
- Emma Tallulah Behn (born September 29, 2008)
The three young women hold places in the line of succession but do not use royal titles and live largely private lives. In 2024, Märtha Louise married American Durek Verrett. The family resides outside Oslo.
King Haakon and the Heirs to the Throne
King Haakon married Mette-Marit Tjessem Høiby in 2001. The couple have two children together, and Haakon is also stepfather to Mette-Marit’s son from a previous relationship, Marius Borg Høiby (born 1997).
Their daughter, Princess Ingrid Alexandra (born January 21, 2004), is now Crown Princess and second in line to the throne after her father. She has taken on increasing public roles while focusing on her education. Their son, Prince Sverre Magnus (born December 3, 2005), is third in line. He maintains a lower public profile and shares the family’s love of outdoor activities, skiing, and photography.
Key Facts About Norway’s Royal Children and Grandchildren
| Name | Relation to King Harald | Born | Current Position / Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Princess Märtha Louise | Daughter | Sept 22, 1971 | Fourth in line; no official duties |
| King Haakon | Son | July 20, 1973 | Current King of Norway |
| Princess Ingrid Alexandra | Granddaughter | Jan 21, 2004 | Crown Princess, second in line |
| Prince Sverre Magnus | Grandson | Dec 3, 2005 | Third in line |
| Maud Angelica Behn | Granddaughter | April 29, 2003 | Fifth in line; private citizen |
| Leah Isadora Behn | Granddaughter | April 8, 2005 | Sixth in line; private citizen |
| Emma Tallulah Behn | Granddaughter | Sept 29, 2008 | Seventh in line; private citizen |
A few points stand out when looking at this generation:
- The family values education and personal development alongside duty.
- Outdoor life, nature, and climate awareness appear frequently in their public interests.
- Several members, especially Märtha Louise’s daughters, deliberately keep a lower profile than many European royals.
- Absolute primogeniture now shapes the future, with Ingrid Alexandra positioned to become the first female monarch in modern Norwegian history.
Looking Ahead for the Norwegian Monarchy
King Harald’s children and grandchildren reflect a monarchy that has modernized while staying rooted in Norwegian values of equality, nature, and quiet service. Haakon steps into the role of king at a time when the institution remains widely supported. Ingrid Alexandra’s generation is already preparing for greater responsibility, combining studies, public appearances, and a more informal style that resonates with younger Norwegians.
The Norwegian royal family continues to adapt. From King Harald’s long reign to the young adults now coming into focus, the story remains one of continuity mixed with thoughtful change. The “kids” of Norway’s late king have grown into adults who will shape the monarchy for decades to come.