Princess Astrid of Norway Dies at 94, Just Two Days After King Harald's Funeral

Princess Astrid of Norway has passed away at the age of 94, the Norwegian Royal House announced on September 11, 2026. The beloved sister of late King Harald V died just two days after attending his state funeral on September 9, bringing another profound loss to Norway's royal family following her brother's death earlier in September.

The Norwegian Royal House confirmed the peaceful passing of Princess Astrid on Friday, September 11, 2026, marking a somber chapter for the Scandinavian monarchy. Born on February 12, 1932, Princess Astrid Maud Ingeborg served as Norway's First Lady for over a decade and was a dedicated member of the royal family for more than 75 years. Her death came at an already painful moment for the nation, occurring just 14 days after her younger brother, King Harald V, passed away at age 89 following more than 35 years on the throne. Princess Astrid had been managing significant health challenges in recent months. She was hospitalized with pneumonia earlier in 2026 and had been receiving treatment for heart failure, with the palace fitting her with a temporary pacemaker in May. Despite these ailments, she made a final public appearance at King Harald's state funeral on Wednesday, September 9, arriving in a wheelchair to pay her respects to her brother. Her presence at the ceremony proved to be her last public farewell, as she passed away peacefully in her sleep just two days later. Following Harald's death, Princess Astrid became the last surviving child of King Olav V and Crown Princess Märtha, her older sister Princess Ragnhild having passed in 2012. In recognition of her lifelong service and dedication, King Haakon VIII issued a heartfelt tribute, stating, 'Throughout her long life, Princess Astrid represented the Royal House in a warm and dutiful manner.' The palace announced that flags would be flown at half-mast from the Royal Palace balcony on September 11 and again on the day of her funeral. Princess Astrid's passing represents the end of an era for the Norwegian monarchy, closing a significant chapter in European royal history. Her funeral arrangements and further details are expected to be released in the coming days as the royal family and nation mourn the loss of this historical figure.