The legendary Spanish singer Julio Iglesias has publicly denied serious allegations of sexual abuse and human trafficking made by two women who were formerly employed at his Caribbean residences. The 82-year-old music icon broke his silence on the matter via social media, following a major investigative report.
Details of the Allegations and Investigation
The claims against Iglesias emerged from a three-year joint investigation by the Spanish news outlet elDiario.es and the TV network Univision Noticias, which was published this week. The two women, using the pseudonyms Rebeca and Laura, allege they were subjected to a pattern of abuse while working for the singer.
Rebeca, a domestic worker, claims that in 2021, when Iglesias was 77, he would frequently summon her to his room at the end of the day. She alleges he then penetrated her anally and vaginally with his fingers without her consent, stating she felt "like an object, like a slave" and was used "almost every night."
Laura, a physical therapist, alleges that Iglesias kissed her on the mouth and touched her breasts without permission. She described one incident at a beach and another by the pool at his villa in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
Both women have filed a formal complaint with Spain's highest criminal court, the Audiencia Nacional, accusing Iglesias of sexual assault and human trafficking. Prosecutors at the court have opened a preliminary investigation into the allegations.
Medical Tests and a Call for Other Victims
Further reporting by elDiario.es includes testimony about being required to undergo medical tests for sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV and chlamydia, and to send the results to a member of Iglesias's staff. The publication also obtained medical documents indicating that five women employed at his Dominican Republic villa in 2021 had gynaecological examinations.
Laura told investigators that she and Rebeca decided to take legal action to encourage other potential victims to come forward. "I think by taking legal action we're sending a message to all the victims of this person... so that they can speak out and believe in justice," she said.
Iglesias's Response and Defence
In a post on Instagram early on Friday morning, Julio Iglesias responded directly to the allegations for the first time. "With great regret, I am responding to the allegations from two people who used to work in my house," he wrote. "I have never abused, coerced or disrespected any woman. These accusations are absolutely false and pain me deeply."
The singer, whose career spans over six decades, stated he would defend his dignity against what he called a "serious affront" and thanked supporters for their messages of love. The case continues to develop as the judicial review proceeds.
