Norway's King Haakon VIII delivers first televised address, fights back tears honoring father Harald V

King Haakon VIII during his first address to the nation. Source: Heiko Junge/NTB/dpa

One day after the death of King Harald V, Norway's new King Haakon VIII addressed the nation for the first time, honoring his father as a "wonderful dad" and fighting back tears during a particularly emotional moment.

"Now It's My Turn"

The 53-year-old monarch said his father always reminded the family that everyone must find their own path. "Now it's my turn," he stated on Saturday.

Haakon praised his father as a person who "always remained true to his values and duties." He noted that it gives "comfort and strength that so many are mourning together with us" in his televised speech. Across the country, numerous people mourned Harald, with more than 20,000 having already paid their respects in front of the Royal Palace in Oslo on Friday. Flowers, candles, and messages had been laid before the palace.

A Tribute to a "Wonderful Dad"

The new king thanked Harald for being a "wonderful dad" to him and his sister Märtha Louise. "You were a warm-hearted and humorous grandfather. A loving and caring husband," Haakon continued. "Everyone enjoyed being with Harald; he ensured unity. You supported us all and took care of us."

Haakon said he will miss his father's laughter. "His warm-hearted, cheerful way of approaching people and situations. My father always managed to get the people around him to relax." He noted that Harald had a special place in his heart for children and young people and was a good listener. "He treated everyone with respect and generosity—and never made a distinction between people."

Emotional Anniversary Tribute

Haakon was particularly moved when recalling that Harald and Queen Sonja would have celebrated their 58th wedding anniversary on Saturday. "Happy anniversary, dear Mama," he said, fighting back tears.

Public Reaction

Mourners in front of the palace approved of the new monarch's first address. "I am happy and I am sad, and I believe everything will be fine. We have a good new king," said 45-year-old nurse Kari Lyngestad to the AFP news agency. Teacher Eyvind Storeheier called the speech "fantastic," adding that Haakon will likely be very similar to his father: "He will be a king of the people."

A New Era

Haakon has adopted the traditional motto of his father and grandfather: "Everything for Norway."

Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre summarized the change of throne with the words: "An era has ended. A new one begins. The king is dead. Long live the king."

King Harald V was extraordinarily popular in Norway.

National Mourning and Official Duties

Norway has declared a national mourning period after Harald's death. Flags flew at half-mast across the country on Saturday, and condolence books were laid out in town halls. Memorial services are to be held nationwide on Sunday. The royal family plans to attend a service in Asker, south of Oslo.

Haakon also held his first official audiences as king on Saturday, receiving the leaders of the Norwegian Church, Parliament, and the Supreme Court, as well as Prime Minister Støre. On Tuesday, the new monarch is to take his oath on the constitution before Parliament.

A coronation of Haakon and his wife Queen Mette-Marit is not planned.