At a Glance
- Julio Iglesias, 82, denies sexual and physical assault claims by two former employees
- The Grammy winner says the accusations are “absolutely false and cause me great sadness”
- Spanish prosecutors are studying the complaint filed on January 5
- Why it matters: The case tests Spain’s handling of workplace abuse claims against global celebrities
Two former household employees have accused Julio Iglesias of sexual assault and workplace harassment during a 10-month period in 2021. The Grammy-winning singer responded on January 15 via Instagram, calling the allegations “absolutely false.”
The Allegations
A joint investigation by elDiario.es and Univision Noticias, published January 13, details claims from two women who worked at Iglesias’ residences in the Dominican Republic and Bahamas. The women, identified as Rebeca and Laura, say the abuse included verbal, physical and sexual misconduct.
Women’s Link Worldwide, the NGO representing the pair, says the investigation took three years. The organization declined to comment on Iglesias’ denial when contacted by News Of Los Angeles.
Rebeca stated her reasons for coming forward:
- Personal justice after a difficult process
- Encouragement for other women working in his homes
- A warning for the Dominican Republic that “he cannot come and do whatever he wants without facing the consequences”
Laura added: “My goal is to ensure that no woman ever suffers this kind of abuse from him again. I want to send the message that women are victims and survivors, not perpetrators or guilty parties.”
Iglesias Responds
In his Instagram post, Iglesias wrote: “I deny having abused, coerced or disrespected any woman. These accusations are absolutely false and cause me great sadness.”
He continued: “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 thanked supporters for messages of “affection and loyalty,” saying they brought him “great comfort.”
Legal Status
Spanish prosecutors confirmed they are reviewing the case after a formal complaint was filed on January 5. Government spokeswoman Elma Saiz said the claims “demanded respect” and reiterated the government’s commitment to combat violence against women.
Spain’s Equality Minister Ana Redondo noted: “Iglesias is a great singer, but people can have a dark side.” She acknowledged his presumption of innocence while expressing belief in the women’s accounts.
Background
Iglesias, one of the best-selling music artists of all time, has won two Grammy Awards and been inducted into the Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame. He is also the father of singer Enrique Iglesias.
At the time of the initial report, News Of Los Angeles reached out through a contact form on Iglesias’ website and to his entertainment lawyer Russell L. King, who did not immediately respond. News Of Los Angeles also contacted the Spanish prosecutors’ office but had not independently verified the claims made in the outlets’ joint investigation.
Key Takeaways
- Two women allege sustained abuse while employed in Iglesias’ homes
- Iglesias publicly denies all claims, citing “malice”
- Spanish authorities are formally reviewing the complaint
- The case highlights ongoing scrutiny of workplace conditions for domestic staff employed by high-profile figures
