Shakira's much older ex Osvaldo Rios reveals why they never got married: 'I saw what was coming'
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Puerto Rican actor Osvaldo Rios dated pop icon Shakira over two and half decades ago when he was 36 and the Colombian singer was only 20.
He opened up about the bond that they shared and why the two had to go on their separate ways during his latest appearance on the podcast 'Cara a Cara con Rodner Figueroa'.
The 'Kassandra' star described their time together as one of the most unique experiences of his life and claimed that they were brought closer not only because of physical attraction but much deeper emotional and spiritual connection, as per Hola!
Why did Osvaldo Rios and Shakira break up?
Osvaldo Rios acknowledged that while their connection was deep and meaningful, they had to let go of each other for the sake of their individual careers. He claimed to have recognized Shakira's extraordinary potential back in the day and encouraged her to follow her own path without holding back.
"We wanted to get married and everything. But I thought it wasn't the wisest decision because I saw what was coming. I said, 'This bird has to fly very high,'" the 64-year-old shared.
While their story ended, the actor still credited the global singing sensation with teaching him a new perspective on love, noting that he holds their time together close to his heart.
Osvaldo Rios says his relationship with Shakira was 'very spiritual'
Osvaldo Rios fondly recalled his time with Shakira, saying, "There are things in life that are unforgettable. It was a relationship that brought a lot of learning to my life. I realized I could have a partner and experience a connection that wasn't tied to the physical aspect but rather the emotional one—and enjoy it just as much."
When they were dating, the pair visited many places including Paris, Brazil, and Puerto Rico, often accompanied by the singer's brother, Tonino Mebarak.
"It was very proper and respectful," Rios recalled. "My relationship with her was very spiritual because she was very devoted to the Virgin Mary."
He also shared writing love letters to each other, which inspired several of Shakira's early songs, including 'Tu' and 'Moscas en la Casa'.
