Grammy-winning music legend Julio Iglesias has publicly denied serious allegations of sexual and physical assault made by two women who were previously employed at his homes. The 82-year-old singer issued a firm rebuttal on social media, labelling the accusations as "absolutely untrue."
Details of the Allegations and Investigation
The allegations surfaced in a joint investigative report published on January 13 by the Spanish online newspaper elDiario.es and the television channel Univision Noticias. The report, which followed a three-year inquiry, claims the incidents occurred at Iglesias's residences in the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas between January and October 2021.
According to officials, a Spanish high court received formal allegations against Iglesias by an unnamed party on January 5. The Madrid-based court holds jurisdiction to try alleged crimes committed by Spanish citizens while they are abroad. A day after the media reports, Spanish prosecutors confirmed they are studying the allegations.
Iglesias's Public Response and Career Legacy
On Friday, Iglesias took to Instagram to address the claims directly. "With deep sorrow, I respond to the accusations made by two people who previously worked at my home," he wrote. "I deny having abused, coerced or disrespected any woman. These accusations are absolutely false and cause me great sadness."
He further expressed dismay at the situation, stating, "I had never experienced such malice, but I still have the strength for people to know the full truth and to defend my dignity against such a serious affront." The singer also thanked those who had sent him messages of support.
Julio Iglesias is one of the best-selling musical artists in history, having sold more than 300 million records worldwide in over a dozen languages. He rose to global fame in the 1970s and 80s, winning a Grammy in 1988 for Best Latin Pop Performance for his album "Un Hombre Solo." He received a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Grammys in 2019. He is also the father of renowned pop singer Enrique Iglesias.
Legal Implications and Next Steps
The case now rests with Spanish judicial authorities. The National Court's press office indicated that Iglesias could potentially be summoned to appear before the Madrid court as the review proceeds. The situation places a significant legal and personal challenge before the iconic performer, who has maintained a largely private life in recent years.
The unfolding legal process will determine the next steps, as the world watches how the allegations against one of music's most enduring figures are handled by the justice system.
