Princess Mary has been dealt a blow just months before she becomes Queen of Denmark. Queen Margrethe II, the ruling monarch of Denmark, announced that she would be abdicating the throne live on TV, during her New Years’ Eve address to the nation.
Magrethe, who is the world’s only reigning Queen, will formally step down on January 14.
Taking her place on the throne will be her son, Crown Prince Frederik, with his Australian-born wife, Princess Mary as the Queen consort.
Danish royal tradition is slightly different from British, which means there will be no formal crowning ceremony for 55-year-old Crown Prince Frederik.
Queen Magrethe became the longest reigning monarch of Europe, after the death of the late Queen Elizabeth II. Margrethe is famous for her eccentric style and chain smoking, despite being 83 years old.
Also giving up royal duties, is Mary’s hair and makeup stylist, Soren Hedegaard. After 23 years working for the royal family, he will step down from his role on January 14, the same day as the monarch.
Addressing his followers on Instagram, Soren Hedegaard shared: “With the end of 2023 and with a change of throne in view, I have also chosen a change in my life. On 14/1/2024, and after 23 years as HRH Crown Princess Mary’s Hairdresser, I am passing the baton on to the next generation.
“It has been 23 amazing and unforgettable years with memories and friendships that I will always carry in my heart. My life has always been colourful and changeable and will hopefully continue to be so in the years to come.”
The stylist, who is 68, played a key role in Queen Mary’s royal transformation, and is a close friend of the Australian princess. The pair met through Soren’s partner, Preben Kristensen, a Danish actor and comedian who is known for his drag impersonations of Queen Magrethe.
“My craft is my heart’s blood. Therefore, my job as Creative Director at STUHR is also the place where I will put all my energy and love for my profession in the future.”
One royal fan was quick to point out his lack of mention of the new Queen, posting on X: “No thank you to Mary, and wish for her future as she becomes Queen? Seems an oversight.”
