Harald V, the sailing king who epitomized a modern Norwegian royalty, dies

King Harald V of Norway, Europe’s oldest monarch, died on Friday just after 6:35am at 89, ending his 35-year reign, the Royal House of Norway said. He was succeeded by his son Haakon. Harald leaves his wife of 57 years, Queen Sonja, two children and five grandchildren; his granddaughter Ingrid Alexandra becomes heir to the Norwegian throne. His death comes as the royal household faces heightened scrutiny: Haakon’s wife, Queen Consort Mette-Marit, has had health problems and this year drew global attention after her past contact with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein was reported. Her son was later convicted of rape and sentenced to four years. Harald became king at 53 in 1991 and was born February 21, 1937.