Princess Astrid Dies Days After Brother's Funeral

Princess Astrid of Norway died peacefully on September 11, 2026, at the age of 94. Her passing comes as a significant loss to the Norwegian Royal Family, occurring just two days after she attended the state funeral of her younger brother, King Harald V. The Royal House announced her death, stating she "passed away peacefully" on Friday.

The flag at the Royal Palace was flown at half-mast in her honor. Princess Astrid's appearance at King Harald's funeral on September 9, 2026, in Oslo Cathedral, where she arrived in a wheelchair due to recent health issues, marked her final public farewell.

King Haakon shared a personal tribute, remembering his aunt's dedicated service and warm support to the royal family. He highlighted her commitment to society's vulnerable and her engaging personality. The King described her passing as a "great loss" for the entire family.

Astrid's five children, Cathrine, Benedikte, Alexander, Elisabeth, and Carl-Christian Ferner, also honored their mother in a joint statement, recalling her love, wisdom, and humor.

Born on February 12, 1932, Princess Astrid served as Norway's first lady from 1954 until 1968. She married Johan Martin Ferner in 1961, and they had five children. Despite health challenges in recent years, including treatment for heart failure, she continued her royal duties into her nineties.