Queen Margrethe Hospitalized for Heart Checks — Royals Share Update After Her Abdication

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Royals (2 / 1) 14.05.2026 19:06 / Angela

Health trouble and the decision to step down

Health concerns figured in Margrethe’s decision to abdicate in January 2024 on the 52nd anniversary of her accession. She became the first Danish sovereign to voluntarily step down in nearly 900 years, passing the crown to her eldest son, King Frederik. The queen had earlier undergone extensive back surgery and has faced several hospital visits since, including care after a fall and a bout of illness the prior year.

Family shifts that still ripple through the monarchy

Margrethe also reshaped the royal landscape before leaving the throne by removing royal titles from Prince Joachim’s four children, who now bear the Count or Countess of Monpezat styling and remain in the line of succession. Joachim and Princess Marie later relocated to Washington, D.C., for his new role, and the couple has said they have "moved on" from the title dispute. Margrethe apologized for any hurt but defended the move as freeing her grandchildren to shape their own lives.