According to Viaplay and Nettavisen, Princess Märtha Louise and her husband, Durek Verrett, star in the six-part documentary series “Alternative Norge,” which premieres on September 16 after a delay following King Harald’s passing. The series follows the couple as they explore Norway’s spiritual community, addressing heavy public criticism and the personal stigma associated with alternative beliefs.
Premieres and Production Background
Viaplay’s new documentary series “Alternative Norge” launches its six-part run on Wednesday, September 16, according to Viaplay. The project was originally scheduled for an earlier release, but Viaplay postponed the premiere due to the passing of King Harald.
In the opening episode, cameras follow Princess Märtha Louise and Durek Verrett to the OMG popup festival in Oslo. Nettavisen reports that Verrett leads guests on a musical journey while the princess delivers a speech focusing on her personal spirituality.
Overcoming Stigma and Public Scrutiny
From the stage during the Oslo festival, Princess Märtha Louise spoke openly about the fear of revealing her spiritual beliefs to the public. According to Nettavisen, she described an earlier period in her life spent hiding in a “spiritual closet.”
– I remember when I still was in a “spiritual closet,” the princess told the audience, as reported by Nettavisen. – I was so afraid to tell people. I thought that if I told who I actually was, it would be the end of me.
The princess added that she faced heavy criticism throughout her life for standing out, joking on stage that she felt fortunate not to face historical punishments for her beliefs in modern Norway. Both Märtha Louise and Durek Verrett discussed the project during Viaplay’s autumn launch event in June, noting that they deliberated carefully before accepting the TV participation. Märtha Louise stated to Nettavisen that she wants the series to bridge the gap between alternative and non-alternative communities, arguing that spiritual abilities are natural for humans but remain heavily stigmatized.
Did you know?
According to Nettavisen, the documentary series explores a wide range of practitioners across Norway, including animal communicators, shamans, breathwork therapists, clairvoyants, and spiritual guides.
Differing Perspectives on Public Backlash
While the princess emphasizes mutual respect and dialogue despite disagreements, her husband takes a different approach to public criticism.
Reflecting on past controversies—such as the Netflix documentary “Rebel Royals”—Durek Verrett stated to Nettavisen that he remains indifferent to negative feedback from the Norwegian public.
– I know that many Norwegians are concerned with what others think, but I do not care at all, Verrett told Nettavisen. – What of it? It is like going to an art exhibition. Either you like it, or you do not.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does “Alternative Norge” premiere?
According to Viaplay, the six-part documentary series premieres on Wednesday, September 16, following a delay caused by the passing of King Harald.
What is the main focus of the documentary series?
Nettavisen reports that the series explores the lives of various alternative practitioners in Norway—such as shamans, clairvoyants, and breathwork therapists—while examining the social stigma attached to spiritual beliefs.
How do Princess Märtha Louise and Durek Verrett view the public reception?
According to interviews with Nettavisen, Princess Märtha Louise hopes the series builds a bridge of respect between alternative and traditional communities, while Durek Verrett maintains that he does not worry about negative public reactions.
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