Shakira’s father's health: How's William Mebarak after several setbacks?

In the past few years, William Mebarak, the 94-year-old father of global superstar Shakira, has made headlines after several health scares. In the past few days, rumors of another setback have intensified, after some outlets have gone so far as to claim that the writer and businessman’s condition had taken a “drastic turn for the worse,” sparking alarm among fans. But after separating fact from fiction, the truth paints a far calmer and more reassuring picture.

Catalan newspaper El Nacional recently reported that Mebarak’s health had “deteriorated severely in recent weeks,” suggesting that his doctors were “pessimistic” about his condition. Naturally, this sent shockwaves across social media, with fans expressing concern for Shakira and her family.

© Ethan Miller

However, sources close to the singer were quick to dismiss these claims. According to exclusive information shared with ¡HOLA!, William Mebarak is not hospitalized. In fact, he is resting comfortably at his home in Miami, just a short distance from his daughter’s residence. Those close to the family have emphasized that there is no reason to be alarmed. “He’s at home, receiving the kind of care that any 94-year-old would need, but he’s perfectly fine,” a family source said.

Shakira Stays Focused on Her Tour

One clear sign that Shakira herself isn’t too worried is that she has continued her highly successful tour across Latin America. The Colombian icon is currently in Quito, Ecuador, where she performed two sold-out shows over the weekend and gave a third concert on November 11.

© Rodrigo Varela, Getty Images

“If her father were in a truly critical condition, Shakira wouldn’t be on tour — she’d be in Miami with her family,” the same insider told ¡HOLA!. The singer’s ongoing performances suggest that her father’s condition, while deserving of care, is stable and not cause for panic.

A History of Health Struggles

While Mebarak’s current state is stable, his health has indeed faced challenges over the past few years. In May 2022, he suffered a fall that required hospitalization. Shakira shared an update at the time, expressing gratitude to fans: “With my dad discharged, already at home and on the mend, helping him with cognitive stimulation after his injury. Thank you all for your immense love and support.”

© Shakira

Five months later, he was hospitalized again, though the details were kept private. In June 2023, he underwent surgery at the Serena del Mar Hospital in Cartagena, Colombia. The following year, he battled pneumonia and required several days of medical observation, followed by another urgent hospital admission shortly after.

Despite these hurdles, Mebarak’s resilience has been nothing short of remarkable. In a November 2023 interview with ¡HOLA!, Shakira spoke candidly about her father’s strength: “What he has endured and overcome physically in the last year and a half, at his age, is beyond explanation. He’s endured six surgeries, two bouts of COVID, two falls, a brain hemorrhage, neurological issues, and pneumonia — and still keeps smiling, lighting up the lives of those who love him.” She described him as a “testament to strength” and a “constant source of inspiration” in her life.

© GettyImages

Setting the Record Straight

This isn’t the first time false reports about Mebarak’s health have circulated. In April of this year, rumors falsely claimed that he had been hospitalized in Barranquilla, Colombia. These baseless stories caused unnecessary distress for Shakira’s family and fans.

Now, with clarification from trusted sources, as of this writing, we can confirm that William Mebarak is alive, stable, and in good spirits. Surrounded by care and love in his Miami home, he continues to be a pillar of strength for his famous daughter,  the same woman who’s been turning her personal battles into chart-topping hits and record-breaking tours.

© GettyImages

As the world continues to monitor Shakira’s successful career and her father’s health, William Mebarak’s strength is as notable as his daughter’s voice.