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, the "Queen of Latin Music," is a highly influential Colombian singer, songwriter, dancer, and record producer. She is recognized for popularizing Hispanophone music globally, contributing to increased Spanish language learning and usage, and paving the way for other Latin artists in the international market. Her achievements include numerous accolades, such as 4 Grammy Awards and 15 Latin Grammy Awards, solidifying her status as a global music icon.

Sections (7)

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

2001: Controversy Regarding Shakira's Crossover and Image

In 2001, Shakira's crossover transition with the 'Laundry Service' album led to criticism from some fans who felt she was abandoning her roots and transforming into a more Anglo-palatable artist.

September 2012: De la Rúa files civil litigation against Shakira

In September 2012, Antonio de la Rúa's civil litigation against Shakira was first reported. This marked the beginning of legal disputes following their separation and the termination of their business partnership.

2012: Start of alleged tax evasion period

In 2012, according to prosecutors, began the period during which Shakira allegedly failed to pay taxes in Spain, leading to a tax investigation in 2017.

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 in damages following the termination of their business partnership.

August 2013: De la Rúa's lawsuit against Shakira dismissed

In August 2013, a Los Angeles County Superior Court judge dismissed Antonio de la Rúa's lawsuit against Shakira, where he sought $100 million.

2014: End of alleged tax evasion period

In 2014, according to prosecutors, ended the period during which Shakira allegedly failed to pay taxes in Spain, leading to a tax investigation in 2017.

November 2017: Shakira named in the Paradise Papers

In November 2017, Shakira was named in the Paradise Papers, which disclosed her sole ownership of a Malta-based company used to transfer over $30 million in music rights, though her representatives maintained its lawfulness.

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.

2019: Shakira applies for offshore companies

In 2019, Shakira submitted applications for three offshore companies, which her representatives said were part of dissolving existing ones and had no income or activities, as revealed in the 2021 Pandora Papers.

July 2021: Spanish judge finds evidence of criminality in tax fraud case

In July 2021, a Spanish judge determined there was sufficient "evidence of criminality" to bring Shakira to trial on charges of tax fraud for allegedly failing to pay taxes between 2012 and 2014.

2021: Shakira named in the Pandora Papers

In 2021, the Pandora Papers revealed that Shakira submitted applications for three offshore companies in 2019, but her representatives stated they were part of dissolving existing companies and had no income or activities.

June 2022: Shakira and Piqué announce separation

In June 2022, Shakira and Gerard Piqué announced their separation in a joint statement, ending their twelve-year relationship.

July 2022: Shakira refuses tax fraud settlement

In July 2022, Shakira refused the settlement offered by the Spanish Prosecution Ministry regarding alleged tax fraud offenses, opting to go to trial to prove her innocence.

September 2022: Tax fraud trial approved by Spanish judge

On 27 September 2022, a Spanish judge approved the tax fraud trial against Shakira, who was accused of failing to pay €14.5 million in taxes, despite her claim of having paid all owed amounts plus interest.

November 2023: Shakira settles tax fraud case

On 20 November 2023, at the start of her trial, Shakira settled her tax fraud case by paying a €7.5 million fine, citing her well-being and her children's interest as factors in her decision.

June 2025: Postponement of Los Angeles Show

In June 2025, Shakira's show in the Los Angeles area was postponed to August due to civil unrest related to immigration policy and enforcement.

March 2026: Release of "Algo Tú" and Postponement of Tour Performances

In March 2026, Shakira and Beéle released the single "Algo Tú" on March 4th. Additionally, performances planned for March–April in several Arab countries and India were postponed or canceled due to security concerns related to the Iran war.