Marius Borg Faces Legal Setback as Court Denies Book Ban

Marius Borg, the son of Princess Mette-Marit and her former partner, faces significant legal challenges as the Oslo District Court ruled against him regarding an unauthorized biography. The court’s decision confirms that the book, titled White Lines, Black Sheep, will remain available for sale, despite Borg’s attempts to block its release.

The biography, authored by journalists Torgeir P. Krokfjord and Øistein Monsen, contains serious allegations against Borg, including claims of drug sales and multiple counts of rape involving various women. Borg, who is currently awaiting trial on 32 charges, denies these accusations, asserting that he struggles with addiction rather than criminal behavior.

In its ruling, the court emphasized the book’s societal relevance and upheld the principles of freedom of expression. Borg’s lawyer, Elias Christensen, noted the court’s recognition of the potentially damaging nature of the cocaine allegations, stating, “We note that the court agrees with us that the claim about cocaine sales is extremely offensive and lacks sufficient factual basis.” Nonetheless, the court ultimately decided the book should not be withdrawn from circulation.

Borg’s legal difficulties extend beyond the court’s ruling. He faces a financial burden, as the court ordered him to pay approximately $4,637 in court costs, in addition to $53,332 to the publisher, Aschehoug, and the Norwegian Publishers Association within two weeks. This financial penalty adds to the strain on Borg, given the ongoing legal battles.

Another notable aspect of this case is the position of the Norwegian Royal Family. The head of communications clarified that the royal family will not cover any legal expenses incurred by Borg. In a statement to the publication Se og Hør, they emphasized that neither the Palace nor Crown Prince Haakon and Princess Mette-Marit would be responsible for these costs.

Since its release in October 2023, White Lines, Black Sheep has stirred public debate and interest in the ongoing controversy surrounding the House of Glücksburg. While Borg and his legal team contend that the book is filled with inaccuracies, it remains available to the public, fueling further discussions about the implications of its claims.

As Borg navigates these challenges, he continues to prepare for his upcoming trial, where he will confront the serious charges against him. The ongoing legal proceedings and the fallout from the biography have placed a spotlight on both Borg and the royal family, raising questions about the intersection of personal struggles and public life.