Opera star Placido Domingo apologises to women who accused him of sexual harassment
- Statement released as performers’ union investigation concludes that 79-year-old singer had ‘engaged in inappropriate activity’
- Domingo has been accused by at least 20 women of forcibly kissing, grabbing or fondling them
Opera star Placido Domingo, facing multiple allegations of sexual harassment, on Tuesday apologised for “the hurt” caused to his accusers, as a union probe found he engaged in a pattern of “inappropriate activity.”
The 79-year-old - a mainstay of some of the world’s most prestigious opera houses - delivered the apology as the American Guild of Musical Artists announced the wrap of an independent investigation into the storied tenor-turned-baritone, which was launched in early September over members’ allegations of sexual harassment and discrimination.
At least 20 women have accused Domingo of forcibly kissing, grabbing or fondling them in incidents dating back to at least the 1980s. He has maintained that his relationships were consensual, and in the apology did not specifically confirm any allegations.
“I respect that these women finally felt comfortable enough to speak out, and I want them to know that I am truly sorry for the hurt that I caused them. I accept full responsibility for my actions,” he said in a statement.
Meanwhile, AGMA published a statement saying its internal probe “concluded that Mr Domingo had, in fact, engaged in inappropriate activity, ranging from flirtation to sexual advances, in and outside of the workplace”.
“Many of the witnesses expressed fear of retaliation in the industry as their reason for not coming forward sooner,” the opera, choral and dance union said, indicating its board had “accepted the findings of the report and will take appropriate action”.
It said the full probe would remain internal - hours before The New York Times reported inquiry finding leaks had spoiled a deal between AGMA and Domingo, which would see the union limit public statements regarding its findings.