Summary (tl;dr)

Princess Astrid of Norway passed away at the age of 94 on September 11, 2026, just two days after attending the state funeral of her younger brother, King Harald V.

Essential Background

Princess Astrid, born in 1932, was the second daughter and the last surviving child of King Olav V and Princess Märtha of Sweden. She served as Norway's First Lady from 1954 until her brother Harald's marriage in 1968, and was a dedicated working member of the Norwegian Royal Family for over 75 years, supporting various charities. In the months leading up to her death, she experienced health issues, including pneumonia in March and heart failure in May, for which she received a temporary pacemaker. Her younger brother, King Harald V, passed away on August 28, 2026, and his state funeral was held on September 9, 2026.

The Full Story

The Norwegian Royal House announced that Princess Astrid of Norway died peacefully on Friday, September 11, 2026, at the age of 94. Her passing occurred just two days after she made her final public appearance at the state funeral of her brother, King Harald V, where she attended in a wheelchair. King Haakon VIII expressed deep sorrow upon receiving the news and ordered flags at the Royal Palace to be flown at half-mast, a tribute that will also be observed on the day of Princess Astrid's funeral. The state of Norway will cover the costs of her funeral. Her five children released a joint statement through the royal court, expressing their gratitude for her being "the best mother we could have."

Why It Matters

The death of Princess Astrid represents another significant loss for the Norwegian Royal Family, closely following the passing of King Harald V and his funeral within a two-week period. As the last surviving child of King Olav V and Crown Princess Märtha, her death marks the end of an era for the royal family. Princess Astrid was known for her lifelong dedication to public service, representing the Royal House with warmth and diligence, and her commitment to charitable causes.

Geographic Location

• Oslo, Oslo County, Norway (death of Princess Astrid, funeral of King Harald V, announcement by Norwegian Royal House, flag at half-mast at Royal Palace)
• Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Oslo County, Norway (King Harald V died, Princess Astrid hospitalized for heart problems)