Challenges Faced by Shakira: Obstacles and Turning Points

Life is full of challenges, and Shakira faced many. Discover key struggles and how they were overcome.

Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll, a Colombian singer-songwriter dubbed the "Queen of Latin Music," is celebrated for her global popularization of Hispanophone music. She has significantly impacted the Latin American musical scene. Her achievements include four Grammy Awards and fifteen Latin Grammy Awards, including three Song of the Year wins, marking her as a highly decorated and influential figure in the music industry.

Sections (7)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals Legacy & Impact

2002: Adjusting to Crossover Status

In 2002, Shakira discussed the challenges of crossing over to the U.S. market, feeling "under the microscope" and adjusting her status from a revered performer in Latin America to a striving pop star in the U.S..

October 2011: Termination of business partnership with Antonio de la Rúa

In October 2011, Shakira terminated her business partnership and services with Antonio de la Rúa, leading to a lawsuit filed by de la Rúa in April 2013 where he requested $100 million.

September 2012: De la Rúa's civil litigation against Shakira reported

In September 2012, it was reported that Antonio de la Rúa had initiated civil litigation against Shakira.

2012: Start of alleged tax evasion period

Between 2012 and 2014, Shakira allegedly failed to pay taxes in Spain, leading to an investigation announced by Spanish authorities in 2017.

2012: Postponement of album release

In 2012, Shakira originally intended to release a new album, but plans to release the single and video were postponed due to her pregnancy.

April 2013: De la Rúa sues Shakira for $100 million

In April 2013, Antonio de la Rúa filed a lawsuit in California against Shakira, seeking $100 million, claiming he was owed this amount after she terminated their business partnership and his services in October 2011.

August 2013: De la Rúa's lawsuit dismissed

In August 2013, a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge dismissed Antonio de la Rúa's lawsuit against Shakira, which he had filed in April 2013.

2014: End of alleged tax evasion period

Between 2012 and 2014, Shakira allegedly failed to pay taxes in Spain, leading to an investigation announced by Spanish authorities in 2017.

2017: Tax investigation announced by Spanish authorities

In 2017, Spanish authorities announced an investigation into Shakira's taxes, alleging she failed to pay taxes in Spain between 2012 and 2014. Shakira claimed her primary residence was in the Bahamas during that time.

July 2021: Spanish judge finds sufficient evidence for tax fraud trial

In July 2021, a Spanish judge determined that there was "evidence of criminality" sufficient to bring Shakira to trial on charges of tax fraud.

July 2022: Rejection of settlement offer in tax fraud case

In July 2022, Shakira refused a settlement offer from the Spanish Prosecution Ministry in her tax fraud case, opting to go to trial to prove her innocence.

September 2022: Tax fraud trial approved by Spanish judge

On September 27, 2022, a Spanish judge in Esplugues de Llobregat approved Shakira's tax fraud trial after prosecutors accused her of failing to pay €14.5 million in taxes. She claimed to have already paid all owed amounts plus €3 million in interest.

November 2023: Settlement reached in tax fraud trial

On November 20, 2023, at the start of her tax fraud trial, Shakira reached a settlement with prosecutors, paying a €7.5 million fine. She cited her well-being and the interests of her children as factors influencing her decision.