Ex Novia de Ruben Lanao
In recent months, the story of Rubén Lanao formerly the accordionist for famed vallenato artist Silvestre Dangond has become a major topic in Colombian media after serious allegations surfaced from his exgirlfriend. The case centers on accusations of non-consensual sharing of intimate videos, emotional trauma, and legal action seeking justice. This scandal not only ended Rubén’s musical role with Silvestre Dangond but also sparked widespread discussion on issues like revenge porn, online privacy, and systemic support for victims.
Who Is Rubén Lanao?
A Career Cut Short
Rubén DarÃo Lanao Del Valle, a 22yearold accordionist from Barranquilla, Colombia, joined Silvestre Dangond’s ensemble in 2021. His talent brought him into the spotlight of the vallenato scene. However, his career unraveled in early 2024 when he was accused of leaking personal videos of his ex-partner after she ended their fouryear relationship.
The Accusations
Porn Revenge and Emotional Manipulation
The exgirlfriend, referred to as Paula in media coverage, alleges that Rubén Lanao had a pattern of controlling behavior during their relationship, such as forbidding her from interacting with other men and dictating how she dressed. After she ended the relationship, she claims he began retaliating through WhatsApp messages and explicit threats. Eventually, intimate videos were circulated on WhatsApp chains and adult websites, exposing her to widespread public humiliation and emotional distress.
Psychological and Academic Impact
Paula recounts that the fallout from the leaked videos caused a mental health crisis: she dropped out of university (pausing her degree in Economics and Administration), became socially isolated, and feared for her safety. Each time she attempted to move on or date again, more videos appeared, amplifying her trauma.
Legal Context
Tutela Order and Court Ruling
Taking legal action, Paula pursued a tutela (a Colombian legal mechanism for protection of fundamental rights) seeking removal of the content and protection for her privacy. A judge ruled in her favor, ordering Rubén and various online platforms to remove all videos within 48 hours and cease further dissemination.
His Response and Denial
Rubén Lanao issued a statement denying responsibility for uploading or distributing the videos. He claimed the content was shared by unauthorized third parties and stated he had no capacity to remove material he did not upload. Nonetheless, the court’s order stands, and he reportedly apologized to his family, followers, and supporters with many calling his denial irresponsible.
Public and Industry Reactions
Professional Consequences
Silvestre Dangond’s production company quickly cut ties with Rubén following the scandal. He is no longer part of Dangond’s ensemble, as the team disassociated itself from the controversy and awaited judicial clarity.
Community Crisis and Empathy
Media outlets and social commentators widely condemned the act of revenge porn, noting that victims often face long-term emotional and social damage. Outlets like Semana and El PaÃs highlighted the seriousness of the allegations and the need for stronger legal protections for women in digital spaces.
Understanding Revenge Porn: Broader Implications
Definitions and Effects
Revenge porn, or non-consensual intimate content sharing, is a global issue affecting many. The emotional impact includes public shaming, mental health decline, relationship breakdown, and career disruption. Victims often fear online harassment and do not have full control over content removal, even with court orders.
- Privacy violations and public humiliation
- Long-lasting psychological trauma and anxiety
- Loss of academic, professional, and personal opportunities
The Power of Legal Remedies
The Colombian tutela system provided rapid relief to the victim in this case. The court’s order to delete the videos reflects an important precedent in digital rights protection. Still, enforcement remains a challenge when content continues circulating across decentralized platforms.
Lessons Learned and Vigilance Needed
Awareness Over Trust
This case reiterates the risks associated with sharing private content in relationships, even long-term ones. Users must recognize that trust can break and that digital content may be weaponized in retaliation.
The Role of Support Systems
Paula’s experience illustrates how critical emotional and legal support is for victims pursuing justice and mental health recovery. Strong trusted communities and accessible legal assistance are essential.
Media Responsibility
News coverage of the scandal largely focused on protecting the victim’s identity while ensuring factual reporting. Media outlets have emphasized the need to avoid sensationalism and to respect the privacy of those involved.
Current Status and What’s Next
Professional Uncertainty
As of May 2025, Rubén Lanao remains separated from Silvestre Dangond’s group. While he continues to deny allegations, ongoing legal and public scrutiny make it difficult for him to resume a high-profile career in vallenato until the situation is resolved.
Possible Legal Developments
Further legal action may follow as the victim’s legal team explores additional avenues, including possibly suing for emotional damages or holding third parties accountable for re-sharing the videos. Public sentiment tends to support stricter penalties for revenge porn.
The ex novia de Rubén Lanao case is a stark reminder of the gravity of intimate privacy violations and the damage revenge porn can inflict. As a former rising star in the vallenato world, Rubén’s story serves as a cautionary tale about accountability, digital ethics, and the consequences of intimate betrayal. For the victim, Paula, the scandal altered her life drastically but the judicial affirmation of her rights offers a measure of validation and hope. In broader terms, this incident highlights the need for stronger digital privacy protections and compassionate support for survivors of online exploitation.