About
Biography
Maria Haukaas Mittet, born Maria Haukaas Storeng on August 3, 1979, in Finnsnes, Troms, Norway, is a Norwegian singer and actress. She grew up on the island of Senja in Troms county. At the age of 11, she gained national attention by playing the lead role in the musical “Annie” at the Bryggeteateret in Oslo in 1991. This early exposure led to further roles in various musicals, both in Oslo and Troms.
In 2004, Mittet participated in the Norwegian edition of “Idol,” where she finished in sixth place. Following this, she released her debut solo album, “Breathing,” in 2005, which peaked at number 13 on the Norwegian album charts. The single “Breathing” reached number 5 and was certified Gold in Norway.
Mittet’s international recognition grew when she represented Norway in the Eurovision Song Contest 2008 with the song “Hold On Be Strong,” written by Mira Craig. She finished in fifth place in the final held in Belgrade, Serbia. The song topped the Norwegian singles chart and was included in her second studio album, “Hold On Be Strong,” released in April 2008.
In 2009, she co-hosted the Melodi Grand Prix, Norway’s national selection for Eurovision, alongside Per Sundnes. She also participated in Sweden’s Melodifestivalen 2009 with Anna Sahlene, performing “Killing Me Tenderly,” though they did not advance to the final.
Mittet continued her involvement in Eurovision-related events by competing in the Melodi Grand Prix 2010 with the song “Make My Day,” advancing to the final but not securing the top spot. In 2011, she performed the official theme song “Glorious” for the FIS Nordic World Ski Championships held in Oslo.
In June 2010, she married actor and musician Hans Marius Hoff Mittet. The couple has collaborated professionally on various projects.
In 2015, Mittet showcased her versatility by winning the Norwegian music competition “Stjernekamp,” which features artists performing across different musical genres. This victory further solidified her status in the Norwegian music scene.
In 2021, she released the EP “Øyliv,” reflecting on her upbringing on Senja. This was followed by “Byliv” in 2022, focusing on her experiences living in Oslo. These projects explored themes of belonging and personal growth.
In 2023, Mittet performed at the Risør Trebåtfestival, bringing her music to diverse audiences across Norway.