Norwegian Princess Märtha Louise Marries U.S. Shaman Durek Verrett in a Picturesque Ceremony
Princess Märtha Louise of Norway and American shaman Durek Verrett have officially tied the knot in a highly anticipated and private ceremony on August 31, 2024. The wedding, held in the breathtaking surroundings of Geiranger, Norway—a UNESCO World Heritage site—marks the culmination of a relationship that has been both celebrated and scrutinized by the public and media alike.
A Royal Romance Marked by Controversy
The relationship between Princess Märtha Louise, 52, and Durek Verrett, 49, has been anything but conventional. Märtha Louise, the eldest daughter of King Harald and Queen Sonja, has long been a controversial figure in Norway due to her involvement in alternative medicine and her claim of being able to communicate with angels. Her connection with Verrett, who describes himself as a “sixth-generation shaman,” added another layer of public interest and skepticism.
Verrett, a spiritual guru known for his unconventional practices and high-profile celebrity connections, has faced criticism both in Norway and abroad. His views on health and spirituality, including controversial statements about cancer and other conditions, have led to heated debates in the Norwegian press. Despite this, the couple announced their engagement in June 2022, receiving the blessing of King Harald, who has been supportive of their relationship despite public disapproval.
The wedding festivities began with a meet-and-greet event in Alesund, a town known for its stunning Art Nouveau architecture. Guests, including members of the Swedish royal family and various celebrities, then traveled by boat to Geiranger, where they enjoyed a scenic journey along the fjord, surrounded by majestic mountains and waterfalls.
The ceremony itself was private, with the couple choosing to limit the use of mobile phones and cameras during the event to maintain the intimacy of the occasion. Among the notable guests were U.S. reality star Cynthia Bailey and other social media influencers, adding a modern twist to the royal event.
The choice of Geiranger as the wedding venue reflects the couple’s desire for a picturesque and serene setting, away from the bustling public eye. The location, known for its natural beauty, provided a fitting backdrop for a ceremony that was both deeply personal and symbolically rich.
Royal Support Amid Public Debate
Despite the controversies surrounding their relationship, the Norwegian royal family has stood by Princess Märtha Louise and Durek Verrett. In an official statement, King Harald and Queen Sonja expressed their happiness for the couple and welcomed Verrett into the family. Crown Prince Haakon, Märtha Louise’s brother, also extended his congratulations.
Märtha Louise, a mother of three from her previous marriage to the late writer Ari Behn, has chosen to step back from her official royal duties to focus on her alternative medicine business with Verrett. This decision, announced in November 2022, allowed her to maintain her royal title while refraining from using it in commercial ventures—a move aimed at balancing her personal and public roles.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Märtha Louise and Verrett
The wedding of Princess Märtha Louise and Durek Verrett marks the beginning of a new chapter in their lives, one that continues to blend the traditional with the unconventional. As they embark on their journey together, the couple remains a focal point of both admiration and debate, reflecting the complex interplay of modern relationships, royal responsibilities, and public perception.
While their union has sparked controversy, it also represents a moment of personal triumph and happiness for Märtha Louise and Verrett, who have navigated years of public scrutiny to celebrate their love in one of Norway’s most beautiful landscapes.
FAQs
1: Who is Princess Märtha Louise of Norway?
A: Princess Märtha Louise is the eldest daughter of King Harald and Queen Sonja of Norway. She is known for her involvement in alternative medicine and has long been a controversial figure in Norway.
2: Who is Durek Verrett?
A: Durek Verrett is an American spiritual guru who describes himself as a “sixth-generation shaman.” He is known for his unconventional beliefs and practices, which have drawn both support and criticism.
3: Where did the wedding take place?
A: The wedding took place in Geiranger, Norway, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning fjord and natural beauty.
4: How has the Norwegian royal family reacted to the marriage?
A: The Norwegian royal family, including King Harald and Queen Sonja, have expressed their support for the couple and welcomed Durek Verrett into the family.
