Plácido Domingo resigns from L.A. Opera amid sexual harassment investigation

Plácido Domingo is resigning as general director of the Los Angeles Opera amid an investigation into allegations of sexual harassment against him.

Domingo announced his resignation Wednesday and in a statement said the allegations have "created an atmosphere in which my ability to serve this company that I so love has been compromised," The New York Times reports. He also said it is in the "best interests" of the Los Angeles Opera for him to resign while he will "continue to work to clear my name." Domingo has withdrawn from his upcoming performances.

The Associated Press in August published the allegations of eight singers and a dancer who alleged Domingo over the course of several decades pressured women into sexual relationships and punished some professionally when they rebuffed his advances. Almost three dozen other people also told the AP they witnessed Domingo's alleged inappropriate behavior. Domingo at the time said he "believed that all of my interactions and relationships were always welcomed and consensual."

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The Los Angeles Opera announced in August it would investigate the allegations, which its president says will continue. Domingo also recently left the Metropolitan Opera. The Times wrote Wednesday that Domingo's departure from the Los Angeles Opera "raises the possibility" that his career may be "drawing to a close."