Haakon VIII takes Norway’s throne after King Harald’s death
What’s new: Ingrid Alexandra becomes crown princess and heir as Haakon begins his first duties as monarch in Oslo.
Haakon VIII has become Norway’s new king after the death of King Harald V, ending years in which he had already taken on a growing share of royal duties as his father’s health declined. Haakon, 53, inherited the throne on Aug. 28 and quickly moved into his first constitutional role, leading a cabinet meeting in Oslo where he adopted the royal title Haakon VIII and kept his father’s motto, “Everything for Norway.” His accession also reshapes the line of succession: his daughter, Ingrid Alexandra, is now crown princess and heir. Haakon has long been a familiar public figure in Norway, but he takes the throne as the royal family faces renewed scrutiny over controversies involving Queen Mette-Marit and her son, Marius Borg Hoiby.