Peruvian singer Yahaira Plasencia has publicly responded to criticism leveled against her following a performance in Virginia, United States. The controversy began after journalist Magaly Medina shared images appearing to show a sparsely attended concert, sparking a debate about Plasencia’s international draw and prompting a sharp retort from the singer herself. The exchange highlights ongoing tensions between the two prominent figures in Peruvian entertainment.
The dispute unfolded as Medina’s program, Magaly TV: La Firme, broadcast footage from Plasencia’s recent U.S. Tour. Medina questioned the turnout at the Virginia venue, stating, “There were very few people. Four cats in Virginia, four cats. And People can’t say there aren’t Peruvians there.” She suggested that low attendance indicated a lack of audience interest, adding, “If people want to hear you sing, dance to your songs, they buy their tickets.” This criticism prompted a swift response from Plasencia, who took to Instagram to defend her operate and challenge Medina’s assertions.
Plasencia’s response, posted on February 18, 2026, consisted of a video showcasing energetic scenes from one of her U.S. Performances, accompanied by a pointed message directed at Medina. “I’m happy with my work, you worry about the failure of your rating,” she wrote, directly addressing the television personality. This message, reported by RPP and Radio Panamericana, signals a clear escalation in the ongoing public disagreement between the two.
The timing of the exchange is notable, as Medina recently expressed dissatisfaction with the ratings of Magaly TV: La Firme following its return on February 9th. During a broadcast, Medina lamented that a previous program hosted by Andrea Llosa only garnered 4 rating points while she was at ATV, and expressed frustration with a perceived lack of support from her network. She stated, “At least the other one (Andrea Llosa) did more. And I complained because she left me with four. I complained because, of course, I am ambitious, I always need more.”
Beyond the professional dispute, Plasencia has similarly been making headlines for her personal life. She recently confirmed her relationship with businessman Luis Fernando Rodríguez Córdova, known as ‘El Diablo,’ describing the connection as “serious” and expressing happiness with the support she receives from his family. “He is a gentleman, he is educated, he has an incredible heart. He is a very good person,” Plasencia stated, according to reports. She added that her parents “respect and love” Rodríguez, and that she feels “peaceful and happy” in the relationship.
The back-and-forth between Plasencia and Medina underscores the competitive nature of the Peruvian entertainment industry and the intense scrutiny faced by public figures. The incident also highlights the growing importance of social media as a platform for artists to directly address criticism and control their public image. The initial report by Magaly TV: La Firme, and Plasencia’s subsequent response, quickly gained traction online, fueling further discussion among fans and media outlets.
As of February 19, 2026, it remains to be seen whether the exchange will escalate further. The focus will likely shift to the ratings performance of Magaly TV: La Firme in the coming weeks, as well as the continued success of Plasencia’s U.S. Tour. The public will be watching to see if either figure offers further comment or seeks to de-escalate the situation.
What are your thoughts on this public dispute? Share your opinions in the comments below.