Royal Family reveals altered titles amid Queen Margrethe's unexpected decision

The Danish Royal family disclosed the updated titles for the senior royals following Crown Prince Frederik's accession to the throne on January 14, prompted by the unexpected abdication of Queen Margrethe.

In a statement released on Tuesday, palace officials detailed the modifications to the titles affecting Queen Margrethe, Crown Prince Frederik, Crown Princess Mary, and Prince Christian. This announcement followed Queen Margrethe's surprising revelation in her New Year's Address on Sunday, announcing her decision to step down and abdicate on January 14, concluding a reign of 52 years.

As anticipated, the court confirmed that Queen Margrethe's eldest son and successor would assume the title of King Frederik, while his wife would be recognized as Queen Mary.

“On Sunday, 14 January 2024, HRH The Crown Prince assumes the Danish throne as HM King Frederik the 10th. At the same time, HRH The Crown Princess will be known as HM Queen Mary,” the Danish Royal Court said in a statement, per an English translation.

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The statement added, “The Royal Couple will henceforth bear the title The King and The Queen of Denmark.”

“HRH Prince Christian becomes the heir to the throne and will henceforth be referred to as HRH Crown Prince Christian,” the palace statement continued.

“After the succession to the throne, HM The Queen will continue to be Majesty and bear the title HM Queen Margrethe,” the statement concluded.

On Tuesday, a subsequent announcement from the Danish Royal House provided further insight into the ongoing developments.

In a statement regarding the transition in leadership within The Royal House of Denmark due to the abdication, it was disclosed that the existing Lord Chamberlain would assume the role of Chief of Court for "the newly established Court of Her Majesty Queen Margrethe."

The unexpected New Year's Eve announcement of Queen Margrethe's abdication surprised the majority of Danes, catching them off guard, as noted by veteran author and royal commentator Phil Dampier in a conversation with The Telegraph.