By Per Liljas
Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy has announced that King Juan Carlos I will abdicate.
The 76-year-old monarch has seen his popularity wane in recent years, following an investigation into his son-in-law’s alleged corruption and a storm of criticism for the King’s high-flying lifestyle.
Calls for Juan Carlos’ abdication have been raised since 2012, when he publicly apologized for going on an elephant hunt in Botswana in the midst of Spain’s grueling economic crisis.
Juan Carlos’ son Felipe will assume the role as new head of the state.
More Must-Reads From TIME
- Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
- Biden’s Campaign Is In Trouble. Will the Turnaround Plan Work?
- Why We're Spending So Much Money Now
- The Financial Influencers Women Actually Want to Listen To
- Breaker Sunny Choi Is Heading to Paris
- Why TV Can’t Stop Making Silly Shows About Lady Journalists
- The Case for Wearing Shoes in the House
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time
Contact us at letters@time.com