French journalist and writer Laurence Debray has become one of the most talked-about figures in recent weeks. Known for her close professional relationship with King Juan Carlos, she has been responsible for shaping the memoirs of the emeritus king. However, even before the book is released, her name is already making headlines due to the significant decision she has made.
Specifically, the journalist has chosen to show a firm attitude regarding what is to come with the publication of the emeritus king's work. This attitude has not left anyone indifferent.
Laurence Debray the unconditional support in King Juan Carlos's memoirs
The collaboration between Laurence Debray and King Juan Carlos is not new. The French journalist had already worked with him in previous interviews, and she was chosen to accompany him in writing his memoirs due to her closeness, discretion, and her international perspective on the figure. During the process of preparing the book, she had direct access to the emeritus king for months, especially at his residence in Abu Dhabi, where he has lived since 2020.
This work, which will be released next December under the Planeta publishing label, promises to review the life and political career of one of the most influential—and also most controversial—kings in Spain's recent history. In France, the book will be published about twenty days earlier, which points to a launch with clear international projection.
However, the controversy surrounding the content has been growing for months. Some believe that the memoirs will be an opportunity for Juan Carlos to offer his version of the most delicate events of his reign. Others think that they could become an attempt to whitewash his image after the financial and personal scandals that have marked his life.
Laurence Debray's move with King Juan Carlos's work
According to information published by El Confidencial, Laurence Debray has decided, at King Juan Carlos's suggestion, to make an important decision. This decision is to make certain adjustments to the final manuscript before its publication. The nature of these changes has not been specified, but the news has sparked all kinds of interpretations.
Some maintain that these adjustments could be for legal or diplomatic reasons, seeking to avoid the inclusion of passages that could generate conflicts or affect the image of the Royal House. Others, however, suggest that the intention would be to soften the tone of some statements or remove details considered excessively compromising.
Nevertheless, there is also the possibility that these changes are related to a matter of structure or narrative. That is, with the aim of improving the literary coherence of the work or adapting its focus to a broader audience. What is certain is that both the publisher and the author have kept silent regarding the extent of the modifications, which has increased interest.
In any case, the fact that Laurence Debray has decided to review the text so close to its release shows her involvement in the project and her commitment. The author, who has earned the emeritus king's trust, would have acted according to his desire to offer a faithful but controlled version of his story.
The most desired and controversial memoirs of the year
King Juan Carlos's memoirs are shaping up to be one of the most important and controversial publishing releases of 2025. Their publication will come at a time when his figure continues to be a subject of debate both in Spain and abroad. After his abdication, the emeritus king has gone through a period marked by distance from his son, King Felipe, and by revelations about his fortune and personal relationships.
His reputation has been damaged in the eyes of the public, and his return to Spain continues to be the subject of speculation. In this sense, this work could serve him to give his own version of the events. This way, he will try to offer a personal closure to a life that has combined success, power, controversy, and exile.