Norwegian princess quits royal duties to work with ‘shaman’ fiance

The 51-year-old princess's relationship with Durek Verrett, a Hollywood spiritual guru, caused waves in Norway after the "sixth-generation shaman" suggested in his book Spirit Hacking that cancer was a choice.

He also sells a medallion on his website labelled a "Spirit Optimizer", which he claims helped him overcome Covid-19.

A poll in September found 17% of Norwegians now have a lower opinion of the generally popular royal family, nearly all citing the princess and the shaman as the reason.

"The princess ... is relinquishing the role as royal patron ... and will not be representing the royal house at the present time," the palace said in a statement.

However, "in accordance with the king's wishes, the princess will keep her title".

The palace said that once the princess and Verrett were wed he would become a member of the royal family but would not have a title or represent the monarchy.

The couple have agreed to refrain from any association with the royal family in their social media channels, media productions and commercial activities. "This is intended to draw a dividing line that more clearly separates commercial activity from the royal house of Norway," the palace said.