This story contains discussion of sexual assault.
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever actor Tenoch Huerta is responding to sexual assault allegations from ex-partner María Elena Ríos.
Last week, Tenoch's ex-girlfriend Elena made the allegations after appearing on the El Feisbuk de la Malinche podcast.
The podcast was then shared by Poder Prieto, a Mexican organization that aims to combat racism in the film industry — of which Elena was a former member.
When asked why she didn't report the assault, Elena noted that she lives in a place where "justice is unattainable" and "they don't believe" you even if you are almost killed.
Following Elena's claims, Tenoch made his own statement on Instagram, confirming that he had dated Elena for a few months about a year ago.
"It was entirely consensual at all times, as countless others can attest. And throughout it was a loving, warm, and mutually supportive relationship," Tenoch wrote.
He continued, "After it ended, however, Elena began to misrepresent our interactions both privately and in front of groups of mutual friends."
As a result, Tenoch says he hired a legal team a few months ago to shut down Elena's claims.
"I engaged a legal team to commence the appropriate actions to protect my reputation and refute these irresponsible and false accusations that can cause great prejudice and damage," he wrote.
Tenoch added, "Although I am by no means perfect, I know that these allegations are simply untrue. And while I will always work to improve myself, I need to contest claims that are both false and offensive."
"I am deeply grateful to my family and the people who have supported me and greatly appreciate everyone who is willing to look at the facts and reflect before rushing to an untrue and unjust conclusion," Tenoch concluded.
