Spanish singer Julio Iglesias has responded after two women publicly accused him of violent and inappropriate behavior while working for him. The 82-year-old international music icon, father of pop star Enrique Iglesias and a performer who has sold over 300 million records worldwide, is now under judicial investigation in Spain following reports by elDiario.es and Univision.
The allegations involve two former employees at Iglesias’ properties in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, and Lyford Cay, Bahamas. One accuser, identified as Rebeca, a domestic worker from the Dominican Republic, claims that Iglesias repeatedly summoned her to his room in 2021 and touched her without consent. She further alleged being forced into sexual acts with another female staff member and described experiencing physical abuse, including slaps to the face.
The second woman, a Venezuelan physical therapist who used the pseudonym Laura, accused Iglesias of unwanted kissing and touching, including on the beach and at his Punta Cana villa pool. She also described a controlling work environment, including threats of dismissal, enforced dietary restrictions, and requests for personal information such as her menstrual cycle. Laura added that other employees endured similar coercion, and some could not refuse his advances.
Reports indicate that several former staff members were compelled to undergo gynecological exams, STD testing, pregnancy tests, and pelvic ultrasounds. Legal complaints were filed on January 5, citing sexual assault and human trafficking, under Spain’s national court jurisdiction for alleged crimes committed outside the country. Investigative outlets claim that evidence includes text messages, phone records, medical reports, and photographs.
Iglesias has denied all allegations, stating on Instagram that he never abused or coerced anyone, describing the claims as “completely false” and expressing deep sadness over the accusations. He thanked supporters and friends who have sent messages of solidarity, including high-profile figures like Isabel Díaz Ayuso, president of the Madrid region.
Public reactions have been mixed. While some defend Iglesias, others, including Spanish officials such as Equality Minister Ana Redondo and Podemos leader Ione Belarra, have emphasized the need for a thorough investigation and accountability, particularly in cases involving powerful and wealthy figures. Meanwhile, discussions have arisen regarding potential revocation of Iglesias’ Gold Medal for Merit in the Fine Arts of Spain.
Mónica Gonzaga, an Argentine model who dated Iglesias in the past, expressed shock at the allegations, describing the singer she knew as polite and gentlemanly. She emphasized that her personal experience does not extend to the recent claims but suggested that if true, the behavior might be indicative of serious mental or cognitive issues.
The investigation continues as Spain’s judiciary examines the accusations, weighing documentary evidence and testimony to determine whether criminal proceedings will move forward. The case has reignited debate about accountability, consent, and the protection of employees in high-profile, international work environments.
