The eldest son of Norway's crown princess has denied that videos on his phone showed acts of rape as he broke down during his first day of testimony in his trial for rape and domestic violence.
Marius Borg Høiby, 29, son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit and stepson to Crown Prince Haakon, could face years in prison if found guilty of the most serious of the 38 charges against him.
Sky News reports that the case has shaken the Norwegian royal family, which has historically enjoyed high favourability ratings.
Earlier this week, he pleaded not guilty to the most serious charges of rape and domestic violence, but admitted some lesser charges, including driving too fast. He also said he was partially guilty - a plea allowed under Norwegian law - of aggravated assault and reckless behaviour.
On Wednesday, Hoiby broke down in tears during his first day on the witness stand, saying: "It is very difficult for me to speak in front of so many people.
"I have been surrounded by the press since I was three. I have been harassed ever since."
He spoke about growing up as the son of a crown princess.
He said: "I have an extreme need for affirmation. A lot of sex, a lot of alcohol. Few can relate to the life I have led. A lot of parties, alcohol, some drugs."
Marius Borg Høiby, 29, was remanded in custody for four weeks. Police said the latest allegations against him involved wielding a knife and violating a restraining order, and there was a risk of reoffending.
His arrest on Sunday is the fourth time he has been detained by police since August 2024, when he was accused of assaulting a woman he had been having a relationship with.
He has denied the most serious charges against him but admitted some of the more minor ones, in a case described as the latest scandal to beset the royal family.