Crown Princess Victoria pays tribute to ‘deeply loved’ godfather King Harald

King Harald of Norway left a giant void after the monarch passed away on Friday, with many royals from across the world paying tribute to him.

One of those to pay tribute to the late royal was Harald’s goddaughter, Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, who penned a moving message.

“King Harald was a deeply loved godfather—always welcoming and warm,” she said. “He was quick to laugh and had a twinkle in his eye. An exceptionally fine person. A role model.

“Some people leave a mark that time never erases. King Harald is one such person. With his warmth and presence, he had a rare ability to truly see people. Uncle Harald, you will forever remain in the hearts of all of us who loved you!

“At this time, my thoughts and those of Prince Daniel are with Norway and its people. We send our warmest condolences to Queen Sonja, King Haakon, and Queen Mette-Marit, as well as the entire Norwegian Royal Family.”

Harald’s death was announced by the Norwegian Palace in a statement that read: “It is with deep sorrow that we announce that His Majesty King Harald passed away today. King Harald passed away peacefully at Rikshospitalet on Friday, August 28, at 06:35. He leaves behind his wife, Queen Sonja, 89, and children, Crown Prince Haakon, 53 and Princess Martha Louise, 54.”

Royal tributes to King Harald

Several monarchies from across Europe paid tribute to Harald following his death, including Victoria’s own father, King Carl Gustaf. The Swedish monarch said: “With great sorrow, my family and I have received the news that our dear friend, King Harald, has passed away.

“King Harald’s life story is exceptional; after the hardships of his childhood involving war and exile, he and his family were able to return to a free Norway and follow the country’s fantastic development during the 20th century, and subsequently succeed his father as King of Norway.

“Both as a head of state and a successful athlete, King Harald was an outstanding representative for his country. He gave ‘everything for Norway’. Throughout all these years, the King has been a good friend to me, my family, and to Sweden. King Harald is now mourned by many in our country.

“To Queen Sonja, my family and I today convey our deepest condolences. I wish my dear godson Haakon, who now succeeds his father as King of Norway, all happiness and success in his upcoming duties for our brother country and people.” 

King Charles also shared a message following the death of his second cousin, with part of his statement reading: “As Norway mourns the loss of so towering a figure, my whole family join in remembering a much-loved kinsman and friend whose kindness, compassion and deep sense of duty echoed from across the sea and across the decades.”