King Haakon VIII inherits Norwegian throne amid family controversies

Haakon VIII automatically became Norway's king after the death of his father, King Harald, on Friday, and is set to swear an oath before the government later in the day. Known for his modest and modern approach, the 53-year-old monarch faces a reign shadowed by personal scandals, including his wife's health issues, her past ties to Jeffrey Epstein, and his stepson's rape conviction. He has championed causes like environmental protection and anti-discrimination, reflecting a generational shift in the monarchy.