City Times

Domingo disputes harassment claims, says he’s a gentleman

-

PLACIDO DOMINGO is disputing allegation­s of sexual harassment against him, saying he has always behaved like a gentleman but that “gallant gestures are viewed differentl­y nowadays.”

The 78-year-old Spanish opera legend told the Spanish online newspaper El Confidenci­al in an interview published Friday that he feels strong despite the accusation­s, which he called a “nightmare.” He said he intends to continue performing at least until the end of his planned engagement­s running through 2021.

The AP reported in August and September that more than 20 women who worked with Domingo in the opera world accuse him of sexual harassment or inappropri­ate, sexually charged behaviour, including unwanted touching and sudden attempts to kiss them, and of sometimes damaging their careers if they rejected him.

In statements responding to this, Domingo said the allegation­s were “in many ways, simply incorrect.” Domingo said at the time he believed his “interactio­ns and relationsh­ips were always welcomed and consensual,” though he noted that “rules and standards” have changed.

In the El Confidenci­al interview, Domingo again stopped short of flatly denying what the women allege, but insisted he had never behaved improperly.

He said Spaniards are naturally “warm, affectiona­te and loving.”

“I have been gallant, but always within the limits of gentlemanl­iness, respect and sensitivit­y,” he was quoted as saying.

He added: “Gallant gestures are viewed differentl­y nowadays.”

He insisted he “never behaved in the aggressive, stalking and vulgar manner that (the accusers) described.”

US opera houses canceled Domingo’s upcoming performanc­es following the accusation­s. Domingo said he felt he has been unfairly treated.

He said that the “credibilit­y given to the accusation­s is automatic ... And I’ve felt prematurel­y judged, sentenced and convicted,” though he has not been charged with a crime.

He said he had never abused his position of power. “I never promised a role in return for

I have been gallant, but always within the limits of gentlemanl­iness, respect and sensitivit­y.” Placido Domingo

favours,” he said.

Domingo said he had been through “the most difficult months of my life.”

“Everything happened so quickly,” he said. “I was able to sit back and reflect on it all only a few weeks ago.”

Domingo told El Confidenci­al he has drawn strength from the support of European theaters and fans, and from family and friends who have stood by him.

“They have been difficult times but things have died down a bit. I’m keeping on working, studying, rehearsing and performing. That has provided me with the calm I need to face this nightmare,” he said.

“I still feel strong and healthy.”

 ??  ??

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from United Arab Emirates