Norway’s Crown Princess Mette-Marit has said she was “manipulated and deceived” by Jeffrey Epstein, the late U.S. financier and convicted sex offender. She made the comments during a televised interview with Norway’s public broadcaster NRK, where she addressed the controversy surrounding her past contact with Epstein.

The interview marked the first time the crown princess spoke publicly in detail about the relationship. She said she regretted meeting Epstein and wished she had never become associated with him.

“Of course, I wish I had never met him,” she said during the interview.

The remarks followed the release of millions of documents linked to Epstein, which revealed communications and connections between the financier and numerous public figures around the world.

📄 Documents Renew Scrutiny of Royal Contact

Recently released records showed communications between Epstein and the crown princess between 2011 and 2014. The documents listed her name several times.

These revelations renewed public discussion in Norway. Many observers questioned why the connection continued after Epstein’s 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor.

Mette-Marit acknowledged that she had shown poor judgment. She also said she did not fully understand Epstein’s background at the time.

Meanwhile, she expressed sympathy for Epstein’s victims. She said their experiences remain the most important issue in the case.

The crown princess also rejected claims of a romantic relationship with Epstein. She said their contact happened through shared acquaintances in international social circles.

🏠 Visit to Epstein’s Home Raises Questions

The crown princess also addressed reports that she stayed at Epstein’s Palm Beach residence in 2013. She explained that the visit occurred when a friend had borrowed the property.

During the interview, she said she felt uneasy during the visit and eventually ended contact with Epstein. According to reports, their communication stopped in 2014.

However, the revelations have sparked renewed criticism and calls for greater transparency about the relationship.

🇳🇴 Pressure Mounts on Norway’s Royal Family

The controversy comes during a challenging period for Norway’s royal family. Analysts say the Epstein revelations have increased scrutiny of the monarchy and its public role.

The situation has also unfolded alongside other personal challenges for the crown princess, including health issues and legal troubles involving her son, which have kept the royal family in the public spotlight.

Meanwhile, Crown Prince Haakon has expressed support for his wife as the royal family deals with the controversy.

Despite the criticism, the crown princess said she wanted to speak openly about the issue and acknowledge her mistake in trusting Epstein.