OSLO | The Royal Court of Norway announced on Tuesday the 50-year-old engagement of Princess Märtha Louise to American Durek Verrett, a self-proclaimed shaman popular with Hollywood stars.
“His Majesty the King and Her Majesty the Queen send their warmest congratulations and wish them the best in the future,” the royal family said in a statement.
Fourth in the order of succession behind her brother Crown Prince Haakon and his two children, Märtha Louise, 50, has very little chance of ascending the throne one day.
She gave up most of her official titles and duties many years ago to be able to devote herself to her private activities.
The daughter of King Harald had formalized three years ago to be in a relationship with Durek Verrett, 47, also known as “Shaman Durek”.
Märtha Louise has three daughters from a previous marriage to Norwegian writer Ari Behn, who committed suicide in December 2019. The couple divorced in 2016.
Follower of “alternative therapies”, the princess is considered in her country as an eccentric. She thus claims to be able to communicate with the angels, a gift she tries to share through courses and books.
American-born Durek Verrett, who confirmed his engagement on social media, rose to fame as a star shaman by offering his services to celebrities like actress Gwyneth Paltrow.
The couple’s relationship has been spied on by the Norwegian media. The princess has been accused of mixing business and royal matters by promoting a speaking tour called ‘The Princess and the Shaman’.
