Mexico City – Veteran actor Rafael Inclán is facing mounting criticism following comments made during a recent media event regarding allegations of sexual assault against singer Julio Iglesias. The remarks, widely perceived as minimizing the severity of the accusations, have sparked public outrage and ignited a debate about accountability and sensitivity within the Mexican entertainment industry, particularly in light of ongoing discussions surrounding gender justice. Televisa,the network with which Inclán has long been associated,is now responding to the backlash.
Rafael Inclán Faces Backlash Over Comments About Julio Iglesias’ Accusers. The television network is responding to statements perceived as minimizing abuse.
The Mexican entertainment world is reeling from controversy sparked by veteran actor Rafael Inclán, a familiar face from Televisa. Known for his roles in classic “ficheras” films and television comedies, Inclán has ignited a wave of indignation with comments widely seen as insensitive. In a country grappling with issues of gender justice, his remarks have been met with strong criticism from both the public and advocacy groups.
This isn’t the first time the comedian has faced controversy, but the current situation is particularly sensitive. As the entertainment industry debates the boundaries of humor and the social responsibility of public figures, Inclán waded into a complex legal matter involving international figures. The question on everyone’s mind at San Ángel studios is whether these remarks reflect an outdated mindset or a lack of sensitivity to delicate issues.
This latest incident adds to a growing list of statements that have put the communications company in an uncomfortable position with the public. The current climate offers little tolerance for revictimization, especially when it comes from someone with such a large platform. What some dismissed as a “press joke,” many others see as a direct affront to women who are finally speaking out after years of silence, reigniting a necessary debate about ingrained machismo within the industry.
Rafael Inclán and the Comment That Shook Televisa
The controversy erupted during a recent media event, where the actor was asked about allegations against Spanish singer Julio Iglesias. In 2021, a former employee and a physiotherapist came forward with harrowing accounts of sexual assault and workplace humiliation. However, according to the actor from Televisa, the problem wasn’t the act itself, but the timing. “Those he grabbed the butts, took a long time to say it, with all due respect,” the comedian said, dismissing the psychological complexity of reporting abuse.
Rafael Inclán
Rather than backing down, Inclán attempted to downplay the severity of the accusations of systematic abuse and mistreatment with a nickname that was offensive to the victims, referring to Iglesias as a “talented butt-grabber.” While acknowledging that the Spanish singer is embroiled in a “major legal battle,” the flippant tone was perceived as a direct insult to the integrity of the women affected.
This isn’t the first time the veteran of Televisa has found himself in hot water. Just a few months ago, the actor had to issue a public apology after making disparaging remarks about the President of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum, whom he called a “housewife.” He defended his comments at the time, claiming they were inspired by a theatrical character—an excuse that now feels worn thin given the repeated expression of views many consider misogynistic and macho.
Rafael Inclán
As the public demands a stronger stance against these comments, the legal proceedings against Julio Iglesias continue. While the case was dismissed in Spain due to lack of jurisdiction, in the Dominican Republic the allegations—backed by recordings and WhatsApp messages—threaten to reach a conclusion. One thing is certain: the Mexican audience is no longer consuming humor in the same way, and the immunity once enjoyed by television’s “untouchables” appears to be eroding.
