Queen Margrethe Honors Late Mother and Husband in Abdication Announcement: A Special Tribute | Vanity Fair

Written by Erin Vanderhoof

The royal family of Denmark traditionally celebrates the arrival of the new year with a series of events, including a parade and banquet. However, Queen Margrethe of Denmark broke this year's festive mood with a poignant announcement during her New Year's address. The 83-year-old queen, broadcasting live on television, informed the Danish populace that she would be stepping down from her throne on January 14, thus ending her reign of nearly 52 years. The throne will be transferred to her son, Crown Prince Frederik, and his wife, Crown Princess Mary.

The outgoing queen expressed her desire for the incoming king and queen to receive the same level of trust and loyalty that she has enjoyed during her reign. In her words, both they and Denmark deserve it.

Queen Margrethe ascended to the throne in 1972 and ruled alongside her husband, Prince Henrik, until his demise in 2018. Following the death of her third cousin, Queen Elizabeth II, in September 2022, she became Europe’s longest-serving monarch and the only serving queen regnant globally. The decision to abdicate came as a result of contemplations about the future following a back surgery she underwent in February.

She commended the healthcare professionals who saw her through the successful procedure. Her recovery kept her from public duties for two months until she resumed her royal duties on her 83rd birthday in April, which she celebrated at the Amalienborg palace with her family members, including her younger son Prince Joachim and his four children.

The monarch made a visual reference to her late husband and her mother, Queen Ingrid, who died in 2000, by wearing a diamond daisy brooch that has historic significance in her family. The brooch is said to symbolize Denmark's national flower and was originally crafted as a wedding gift for Queen Ingrid in 1935.

In her address, Queen Margrethe reflected on the events of the past year, highlighting the October 7th terrorist attack in Israel and the ongoing Gaza conflict. She lamented the harsh toll that war takes on the innocent, including women and children.

She also spoke affectionately of her grandson and successor, Prince Christian, lauding his eloquent speech at his 18th birthday gala. She particularly admired his candid admission of human imperfections, seeing it as an example of strength and honesty that can inspire others.