Maribel Guardia has found herself embroiled in a complex custody battle following her recent legal actions against her daughter-in-law, Imelda Tuñón. The renowned actress filed this complaint to protect her grandson, José Julián Figueroa, amid allegations concerning the child’s welfare and his mother’s fitness as a caregiver.
The legal strife began on January 21, 2025, when Guardia expressed serious concerns about Tuñón’s actions, which reportedly included substance abuse and neglect. Reports surfaced of Tuñón frequenting parties, allegedly returning home under dubious circumstances. These troubling claims prompted Guardia to take immediate action, filing her complaint with the Fiscalía General de la Ciudad de México.
On January 22, it was confirmed by various sources, including Televisa Espectáculos, who reported the decision made by local authorities granting temporary custody of seven-year-old José Julián to his grandmother, Maribel Guardia. The actress, who has openly expressed her love and concern for her grandson, stated, “The specialists determined the child should temporarily stay with me for ten days, only during the investigation.”
Guardia has emphasized her primary motivation throughout this ordeal: "Only want to safeguard my grandson’s wellbeing and let God and the authorities decide on what’s best." Despite the situation’s escalated tension, she holds on to the belief children should ideally reside with their mothers, stating, “But he needs a mother who is healthy and capable,” hinting to her desire for Imelda to improve and eventually regain custody.
Imelda Tuñón, on the other hand, has rebutted Maribel’s claims, asserting her innocence and her capability of caring for her child. Soon after her mother-in-law's complaint, Tuñón went live on social media from the local Fiscalía, asserting: "Everything is negative; all medical examinations were passed...I am perfectly fit." Her emotional struggle was palpable as she reacted to separation from her son, expressing her determination to reclaim him. "I will fight for him until the end... it’s unconceivable for them to take my child like this without allowing any tests to assess the situation," she stressed.
The strained relationship between the two women has roots deep within family dynamics, exacerbated by the recent tragic death of Julián Figueroa, Imelda’s husband and Maribel’s son. His untimely passing left emotional scars, and the surrounding circumstances appear to have fueled the discord between them. Imelda has been vocal about the disruptions caused by Figueroa’s death and the pressures she faced, including rumors of marital strife related to Guardia and her husband Marco Chacón.
Guardia’s concern for the young boy’s safety is not unmerited. The authorities conducted evaluations and, reportedly, Imelda was unable to prove herself as the sole caretaker suitable for José Julián. Following their decision, the boy was taken from school without Imelda’s consent—an act she described as premeditated by Maribel and her husband, Marco. Upon her arrival at the school, Imelda found herself blocked from accessing her son by local police and social services.
The tension continued to escalate as Guardia reveals her desire not to tarnish Imelda’s image but affectionately aims to do what is right for her grandson. The conflict has drawn considerable media attention, as audiences follow the distressing yet poignant familial saga. Viewers and followers have chimed in with mixed reactions—some support Maribel, lauding her as the protective grandmother, others show empathy for Imelda, awaiting her potential return to reclaim her child.
Reflecting on the ordeal, both women seem to be trapped in turbulent emotions fueled by love for the child. Yet, the situation continues to evolve, shifting with every judicial assessment and public remark. For the time being, José Julián will reside with his grandmother, fostering hope for his future stability amid familial upheaval.
While many details of this legal battle remain unresolved, one thing is clear: the outcome will deeply affect the lives of all involved, primarily the innocent child caught at the center of this emotional storm. Amid personal heartbreaks and public scrutiny, both Maribel Guardia and Imelda Tuñón are united by unyielding love for José Julián, each hoping for outcomes aligned with what they perceive as his best interests.