Legendary Spanish singer Julio Iglesias has publicly and vehemently denied serious allegations of sexual abuse and human trafficking made by two former domestic employees. The 82-year-old music icon described the accusations as 'completely false' in a signed statement posted to his Instagram.
Formal Complaint and Singer's Denial
Prosecutors at Spain's High Court have initiated preliminary proceedings based on a criminal complaint filed on behalf of the women. The complaint, lodged by the campaign group Women's Link Worldwide, alleges offences including human trafficking for forced labour, sexual abuse, and violations of workers' rights.
In his response, written in Spanish and published on Friday 16 January 2026, Iglesias stated: 'I deny having abused, coerced or disrespected any woman. These accusations are completely false and cause me great sadness.' He added that messages of support from the public had provided him with 'great comfort'.
Details of the Allegations
The allegations stem from a joint investigation by Spanish online newspaper elDiario.es and television channel Univision Noticias, which followed a three-year probe. The complainants, identified by the pseudonyms Rebeca and Laura, are described as young Latin American women in 'vulnerable situations' heavily dependent on their wages.
The group states the women worked in Iglesias's homes in the Dominican Republic and the Bahamas for a period of ten months in 2021. In the investigation, Rebeca is reported to have said she felt 'used' almost every night and described feeling like 'an object, like a slave'. She labelled one of the star's residences a 'little house of terror'.
Laura reportedly described an 'uncomfortable' working environment where staff were in a 'constant state of alert' and alleged that Iglesias 'normalised abuse'.
Legal Proceedings and Industry Reaction
The formal allegations were submitted to the court earlier this month. Under Spanish judicial secrecy rules, the High Court has not disclosed further details of the case. Iglesias's record label, Sony Music, has declined to comment on the ongoing situation.
Iglesias, one of the world's best-selling Latin artists with over 300 million records sold, is also the father of pop star Enrique Iglesias. The singer built a massive global fanbase after beginning his career in Spain and achieving major success in the United States.
