Spanish singer Julio Iglesias has denied allegations of sexual abuse made by two former female employees, calling the claims “absolutely false” and saying he has never “abused, coerced or disrespected any woman”.
The 82-year-old entertainer broke his silence on Friday in an Instagram post, responding to accusations that he subjected the women to “inappropriate touching, insults and humiliation … in an atmosphere of control and constant harassment” at his Caribbean mansions in 2021.
The allegations emerged following a three-year joint investigation by Spanish news site elDiario.es and Univision Noticias. The two women, a domestic worker and a physical therapist using the pseudonyms Rebeca and Laura, have filed a complaint with Spain’s Audiencia Nacional accusing Iglesias of sexual assault and human trafficking. The court’s prosecutors are conducting a preliminary investigation.
Rebeca alleged that Iglesias would call her to his room and penetrate her with his fingers without consent, saying “He used me almost every night. I felt like an object, like a slave.” Laura claimed he kissed her and touched her breasts against her will on two occasions.
In a separate report, elDiario.es published testimony from Rebeca and another former worker alleging they were required to undergo medical tests for sexually transmitted diseases, with results sent to a housekeeper. Medical documents reportedly show five women employed at Iglesias’s Dominican Republic villa in 2021 underwent gynaecological examinations.
Iglesias said he would “defend my dignity against this serious affront” and thanked supporters for their messages. Laura said she and Rebeca hoped their legal action would encourage other victims to come forward.
