King Harald's Seated Portraits Signal Return to Duty

0:00On March 25, Norway's King Herald made his first official portraits in a seated position during the Belgian state visit on March 24. The 89-year-old monarch had been hospitalized just a month earlier for an infection and dehydration while vacationing in Spain. He appeared alongside Belgium's King Philippe and Queen Matilde for both welcome photos and gala dinner shots. The health scare happened shortly after his birthday on February 21. In February 24, he was admitted to a hospital in Tenerife in the Canary Islands. His doctors treated a skin infection, and by February 26, he was discharged but stayed on holiday under monitoring. King Herald has dealt with various health challenges lately, like a leg operation in 2022, COVID episodes that year, and in 20, 23, and pacemaker surgery this year. He has used crutches or a cane since 2021. Following his absence, Crown Prince Hayekin, 52, stepped in as regent.

1:00The King and Queen Sonia, 88, returned home on March 7, with palace officials confirming he was in good health and ready to resume. Duties the following week, he has no plans to step down, insisting his oath to parliament lasts for life. Just weeks later, his seated pose in the portrait signals a careful return to public life after recovery, showing the monarchy's steady hand amid. ongoing health watches, entertainment and celebrity news today.