Shaman Durek Verrett, the husband of Princess Märtha Louise of Norway, has spoken out about his ongoing health struggles in a powerful new statement.
The 50-year-old spiritual leader revealed that he undergoes dialysis three times a week “just to survive” after losing his kidney transplant several years ago. His statement follows what he describes as a campaign of “relentless targeting” by a Norwegian news outlet, which he claims has further worsened his condition.
Accusations Against the Media
Durek alleged that Norwegian publication Se og Hør violated press ethics on two occasions—first, by publishing a private nude photo without his consent, and second, by spreading false allegations of abuse. The Norwegian Press Professional Committee (PFU) ruled in his favor, confirming that the outlet had breached ethical standards.
In his statement, he shared: “I’ve been relentlessly targeted by Norwegian media, Se og Hør in particular, for the past six years. I’ve been portrayed in ways that have deeply harmed my health, my character, my reputation, my business, and the people I love.”
He went on to outline the PFU’s rulings:
Violation 1: Publishing a stolen, private nude photo without consent.
Violation 2: Spreading false allegations of abuse without evidence, witnesses, or fact-checking.
“Let me be clear: I have never assaulted anyone,” he stated, denying the accusations made against him. He claimed that misinformation had been spread by disgruntled former acquaintances, ex-partners, and opportunists looking to profit from his downfall.
The Impact on His Health
Durek shared that these attacks have taken a significant toll on his well-being: “I lost my kidney transplant several years ago. I now undergo dialysis three times a week just to stay alive. These attacks haven’t just hurt emotionally—they’ve made that fight harder.”
He concluded his statement by expressing gratitude to his lawyer, Geir Lippestad, the PFU, and his loyal supporters, whom he calls his “Tribe.”
Durek’s Longstanding Health Struggles
This is not the first time Durek has opened up about his health battles. In a past interview, he revealed that he has struggled with high blood pressure and infections since childhood, which he attributes in part to the trauma of growing up in conflict zones and experiencing abuse.
At 28, his health took a critical turn when he suffered renal failure. “My body couldn’t take it anymore. I ended up in the hospital, where I had a near-death experience. I flatlined seven times, and the eighth time, the doctor brought me back. I was in a medically induced coma for two months and then on dialysis for eight years.”
His sister, Angela, ultimately saved his life in 2012 by donating one of her kidneys. However, with the transplant now failed, Durek faces a grueling battle for survival, relying on dialysis multiple times a week.
