In an unusual journey, Sahar Tabar, an Iranian young woman born as Fatemeh Khishvand, gained fame by drastically changing her appearance through numerous surgeries to mimic the appearance of Hollywood star Angelina Jolie.
Her transformation involved a series of procedures such as liposuction and nose refinement, fueling discussions and debates on various online platforms. Dubbed as Iran’s Zombie Angelina Jolie, she was controversially sentenced to ten years behind bars.
The ‘Zombie Angelina Jolie’ Look
At just 19, Tabar reportedly undertook over 50 surgical procedures in her quest for her one-of-a-kind look. Although she never publicly admitted to wanting to resemble Angelina Jolie, her supporters quickly made the connection. She openly displayed her dramatically altered appearance via social media, featuring images with sunken cheeks, sharp features, pronounced lips, and a notably modified nose. It’s uncertain how many surgeries were real, since speculation exists that her pictures could be heavily altered or digitally enhanced.
Garnering attention on social media, her bizarre but captivating look amassed nearly four million followers on her now-defunct Instagram account @sahartabar_official. Despite her mother’s disapproval, Sahar was determined to pursue fame. “I found cyberspace to be an easier path,” she explained, “much easier than pursuing an acting career.”
The Reality Behind the Face
Sahar emphasized, “Each photo I post is painted in a fun way. It’s a form of self-expression, a kind of art. My followers are aware this isn’t my true face,” she shared in a chat with Russia’s news platform Sputnik.
She clarified further, “My intention was never to look like Jolie, nor the animated character Corpse Bride. Now people see a resemblance, but I consider myself unique, not aiming to imitate others.”
This revelation left millions of followers and casual viewers perplexed. In October 2019, Iranian police detained the self-titled Zombie Angelina Jolie for her so-called sacrilegious Instagram pictures. Additionally, she faced accusations of illegal property purchase, provoking unrest, negatively influencing youth, earning through inappropriate means, and violating Iran’s strict female dress code. The decree sentenced her to ten years in the notorious Qarchak Prison, setting a startling precedent due to her young age.
An Advocate’s Plea for Angelina Jolie’s Intervention
Iranian activist Masih Alinejad responded to Sahar’s plight by reaching out on social media. “Sahar Tabar is only 19. This joke landed her in jail, leaving her mother in relentless grief. Dear Angelina Jolie, we could use your support,” Alinejad implored.
Following 14 months in prison, Sahar gained her freedom. This coincided with the tragic passing of Mahsa Amini, who died due to harsh treatment by Iran’s morality police, increasing international scrutiny on Sahar’s case.
