King Frederik and Queen Mary are grieving the sudden and heartbreaking loss of their dear friend, Michael Halbye. Just as they were preparing for their daughter Princess Isabella’s birthday celebrations on April 21, the royal couple was struck with devastating news.
Michael, a respected businessman and close confidant of King Frederik, tragically passed away following a ski accident in the Swiss resort of Verbier.
After sustaining internal bleeding, he received emergency care on-site and was airlifted to the hospital, but sadly, he succumbed to his injuries on Saturday, April 12.
Queen Mary’s Tribute to Michael Halbye
In a statement released to the public, Queen Mary expressed her sorrow over the loss of her close friend: “I received the news of Michael Halbye’s sudden passing with great sadness,” she said. “Michael was a person of rare positive energy, vast knowledge, and a deep commitment to making a difference for others. He was a true friend and will be missed by so many. My thoughts are with his family and all who were close to him.”
While King Frederik has yet to release a statement of his own, Danish newspaper Berlingske reported that the monarch first met Michael when he was still a prince. Michael had been a mentor to Frederik, helping him navigate the business world, and their bond grew over the years. Michael continued to visit the royal family and served as a board member for more than 17 years at the foundation named after Queen Mary.
Tributes from Business Leaders
Michael’s legacy extends beyond the royal family. He had a distinguished career, including serving as vice-chairman at Kirkbi, the investment firm behind Lego, for three years.
Thomas Kirk Kristiansen, Chairman of Kirkbi, paid his respects in a heartfelt statement: “It is with great sadness that we received the news of Michael’s passing. Our thoughts go out to his family and loved ones as they cope with the sudden loss of a man who left an indelible, positive mark on everyone he encountered.” Kristiansen continued, “We will miss him as Vice Chairman, but most of all as a person. May his memory be honored.”
A Difficult Time for the Royal Family
As King Frederik and Queen Mary mourn the loss of their cherished friend, they are still preparing to celebrate Princess Isabella’s upcoming birthday.
On April 15, they will attend a special performance in her honor at The Old Stage of The Royal Danish Theatre in Copenhagen. The event will be attended by 1,000 young people, aged 17 to 24, who will join the royal family to mark the occasion.
