Major Controversies Surrounding Shakira: A Detailed Timeline

A closer look at the most debated and controversial moments involving Shakira.

Shakira Isabel Mebarak Ripoll is a highly acclaimed Colombian singer, songwriter, dancer, and record producer, often dubbed the "Queen of Latin Music." She is recognized for her significant influence on Latin American music and her role in popularizing Hispanophone music globally, contributing to the increased interest in the Spanish language. She has received numerous awards, including 4 Grammy Awards and 15 Latin Grammy Awards.

Sections (7)

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

2001: Controversy Over "Crossover" Transition

In 2001, Shakira's "crossover" transition with the new album Laundry Service and its manifestations created a rift among her followers, with some considering her a sellout due to her blond hair, English language singing, and new look.

October 2010: Statement on Gypsies in GQ Magazine

In October 2010, in the Spanish edition of GQ magazine, Shakira stated "we are all gypsies" to French President Nicolas Sarkozy, expressing concern for the rights of gypsies and urging action for fundamental human rights.

2012: Tax investigation period begins

In 2017, Spanish authorities investigated Shakira for allegedly failing to pay taxes in Spain between 2012 and 2014, a period when she resided in Barcelona. Shakira maintained her primary residence was in the Bahamas.

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

In April 2013, Antonio de la Rúa filed a lawsuit against Shakira in California, seeking $100 million after she terminated their business partnership.

2014: Tax investigation period ends

November 2017: Shakira named in the Paradise Papers

In November 2017, Shakira's name appeared in the Paradise Papers, disclosing her sole shareholder status in a Malta-based company used to transfer over $30 million in music rights; her representatives claimed the company's use was lawful.

2017: Investigation into Shakira's taxes announced

In 2017, Spanish authorities announced an investigation into Shakira's taxes, alleging she failed to pay taxes in Spain between 2012 and 2014 while residing in Barcelona with Gerard Piqué; Shakira claimed her primary residence was in the Bahamas.

2019: Shakira applies for offshore companies

In 2021, the Pandora Papers revealed that in 2019 Shakira submitted applications for three offshore companies. Her representatives stated they were for dissolving existing companies with no income or activities, and that Spanish authorities were aware of them.

October 2020: Shakira publishes op-ed on separated children at U.S.-Mexico border

In October 2020, Shakira wrote an op-ed for Time magazine about the 545 children separated from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border, criticizing U.S. immigration policies.

July 2021: Shakira faces trial on tax fraud charges

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

2021: Shakira condemns violence during Colombian protests

During the 2021 Colombian protests, Shakira condemned the violence and called on President Iván Duque to stop human rights violations.

2021: Pandora Papers reveal Shakira's offshore companies applications

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

July 2022: Shakira refuses settlement and opts for tax fraud trial

In July 2022, Shakira refused a settlement offer from the Spanish Prosecution Ministry regarding alleged tax fraud and chose to go to trial to prove her innocence. Prosecutors requested an eight-year prison sentence and a €23.8 million fine.

September 2022: Shakira tax fraud trial approved

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

November 2023: Shakira settles tax fraud case on trial commencement

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