Spanish music icon Julio Iglesias is at the centre of a major scandal after two women accused the 82-year-old singer of sexual abuse. Spain's judiciary has now opened a preliminary criminal investigation into the serious allegations.
The Allegations in Detail
One woman, using the pseudonym Rebeca, claims she was pressured into having sex with the global star. She described enduring acts of physical and verbal abuse, including being slapped. She told media she felt "like an object, like a slave."
A second accuser, identified as Laura, alleges that Iglesias kissed her on the mouth and touched her breasts without her consent. She told the Spanish outlet eldiario.es that the first incident occurred on a beach, where "he came up to me and touched my nipples." She claims a similar event happened later at the pool of his villa in Punta Cana, in the Caribbean.
Official Investigation Launched
The high court in Spain, the Audiencia Nacional, has confirmed the launch of a probe. In an official statement, the court said: "A complaint was filed with the Public Prosecutor's Office of the Audiencia Nacional on 5 January 2026."
The court emphasised that the preliminary investigation proceedings are confidential. It added that, to protect the alleged victims, no further information would be provided at this stage.
Response and Reaction
Julio Iglesias has not publicly commented on the accusations. However, Spanish media reported that a woman identified as a manager of one of his properties dismissed the claims as "nonsense." She expressed her "gratitude, admiration, and respect" for Iglesias, calling him a "humble, generous, great gentleman and very respectful to all women."
Iglesias, who found fame in the UK when his song 'Begin the Beguine' topped the charts in 1981, is one of the world's best-selling musicians, with over 300 million records sold globally.
If you've been affected by sexual assault, support is available via www.rapecrisis.org.uk or the national helpline on 0808 802 9999.
