The Swedish Royal Household has announced that Princess Sofia, wife of Prince Carl Philip, is expecting their fourth child, due in February 2025. The palace stated that Princess Sofia is ‘doing well’ and no changes are expected to her official schedule this autumn. The couple, both 39 years old, already have three sons: Prince Alexander (7), Prince Gabriel (5), and Prince Julian (2).This joyous news comes just days after the couple attended the controversial wedding of Princess Märtha Louise of Norway and American shaman Durek Verrett. The Norwegian royal wedding has stirred debate due to Verrett’s unconventional spiritual practices and claims, including assertions of being able to cure cancer. The couple’s decision to sell exclusive rights to their wedding photos to Hello! magazine and Netflix has also drawn criticism.The announcement of Princess Sofia’s pregnancy provides a positive focus for the Swedish royal family amidst ongoing controversies surrounding other European royals. Margareta Thorgren, the Swedish royal court’s information chief, reported that the couple’s children were ‘very happy’ to learn they will have a new sibling.While the Swedish royals celebrate this news, other royal families continue to face challenges. The British royal family, for instance, is still grappling with the aftermath of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s departure from royal duties, with recent reports suggesting Prince Harry may be seeking to reconnect with the royal family.As the Swedish royal family prepares to welcome its newest member, the contrasting situations within European royal houses highlight the evolving nature of monarchy in the 21st century.
Key points
- Princess Sofia of Sweden is expecting her fourth child, due in February 2025.
- The pregnancy announcement comes shortly after the controversial wedding of Princess Märtha Louise of Norway and Durek Verrett.
- European royal families are facing various challenges and controversies, highlighting the changing nature of monarchy.
