Denmark's Queen Margrethe II has hit the end of her long run. In a recent statement, she announced her decision to abdicate her role in early 2024 after a reign that lasted more than five decades.
During her traditional New Year's Eve speech broadcast on Danish television, the 83-year-old queen cited that she plans to hand over the throne to her son, 55-year-old Crown Prince Frederik. “In two weeks time I have been Queen of Denmark for 52 years,” she stated. "Such an amount will leave its mark on anybody — also on me!"
"The time takes its toll, and the number of ‘ailments’ increases. One cannot undertake as much as one managed in the past,” she continued. “In February this year I underwent extensive back surgery. Everything went well, thanks to the competent health personnel, who took care of me. Inevitably, the operation gave cause to thoughts about the future — whether now would be an appropriate time to pass on the responsibility to the next generation."
“I have decided that now is the right time,” the queen continued. “On 14th January, 2024 — 52 years after I succeeded my beloved father — I will step down as Queen of Denmark. I will hand over the throne to my son Crown Prince Frederik."
More from LittleThings: The Biggest Royal Scandals Over Queen Elizabeth II's 70-Year Reign
While most agree that this is a good decision for the queen, they can't help but share their sadness in seeing her leave the throne.
"I'm not ready to see my queen go," one person commented. "She's unlike any queen you've ever known. She's written some award winning plays. Designs and sews her cast costumes. Just very unique woman."
Someone else commented: "Now that is a REAL queen. God bless you your family and Denmark."
