Martha's Daughter and Her Spiritual Guide - The Monarchy is participating in the contentious nuptials
The Norwegian royal family will largely participate in the marriage ceremony of Princess Martha Louise (52), who's tying the knot with self-proclaimed shaman Durek Verrett (49). This was disclosed on August 26th, via a palace press release.
Based on the announcement, it appears King Harald (87) and Queen Sonja (87) will also attend. Alongside, Crown Prince Haakon (51), Crown Princess Mette-Marit (51), and their offspring - Princess Ingrid Alexandra (20) and Prince Sverre Magnus (18) - are expected to be present. Additionally, Princess Astrid (91), King Harald's sister, is rumored to be in attendance.
Marius Borg Høiby might skip the ceremony
However, Marius Borg Høiby (27), Crown Princess Mette-Marit's eldest son from a previous relationship, is reportedly not joining the festivities, as reported by NRK after confirmation from the court. The 27-year-old has lately made headlines due to allegations of violence and other scandalous conduct, including suspected cocaine use.
The royal wedding in Geiranger promises ample conflict potential in the Norwegian dynasty, given the controversial relationship between Verrett and the princess that has sparked harsh criticism in Norway for quite some time. In response, Martha Louise decided in November 2022 to no longer participate in any official duties for the Norwegian royal family due to her love.
An unconventional wedding
Unlike traditional weddings, Martha Louise indicated that her wedding, which will be held in Geiranger, will be unconventional. She shared this on her podcast "HeartSmart Conversations". Despite the untraditional nature, the wedding celebrations are said to be extravagant, as reported by Norwegian media outlets, and will span a period of four days. The events are anticipated to center around "Cool and sexy" or a Latin American theme.
Princess Martha Louise and her partner Durek Verrett, an American spiritual healer, have been engaged since 2022, following her divorce from her former husband, Ari Behn (1972-2019), with whom she has three daughters (born in 2003, 2005, and 2008). Prior to her current relationship, the princess had been officially involved with Verrett since 2018.
King Harald of Norway, along with Queen Sonja, will be in attendance at Princess Martha Louise's unconventional wedding in Geiranger. Crown Prince Haakon, Crown Princess Mette-Marit, and their children, as well as Princess Astrid, are also expected to participate in the festivities.
