Princess Martha Louise and Shaman Durek Verrett address public criticism ahead of their wedding

As Princess Martha Louise of Norway prepares to marry Shaman Durek Verrett on August 31, 2024, the couple has opened up about the public criticism they’ve faced since revealing their relationship in 2019. Martha, who relinquished her royal duties in 2022 to focus on alternative practices, shared that she was unaware of the extent of racism until she met Verrett. “Since I met Durek, that criticism has doubled,” she said to Hello Magezine. Verrett, who will become the first Black man to marry into a European royal family, expressed the emotional toll, saying, “At first, it hurt me. I had a meltdown, a breakdown.”

Despite the challenges, the couple remains committed to their relationship. Verrett highlighted the spiritual significance of their marriage, stating, “Sealing our relationship in front of the universe is a strong spiritual declaration.” The wedding, set against the backdrop of Norway’s stunning fjords and mountains, will be attended by 350 guests, including members of the Norwegian royal family.