Meet Sahar Tabar, a young Iranian woman who captured global attention by attempting a striking transformation to resemble the iconic Hollywood actress, Angelina Jolie. Her numerous surgeries, including liposuction and nose alterations, ignited both controversy and fascination across social platforms. Sahar, officially known as Fatemeh Khishvand, even earned the moniker, ‘Iran’s Zombie Angelina Jolie,’ which ultimately led to a 10-year prison sentence.
The Rise of the Zombie Jolie
At just 19, Sahar purportedly underwent over 50 cosmetic procedures to modify her looks. While she never explicitly claimed her desire was to mirror Angelina Jolie, her followers drew the comparison, spurred by her social media presence filled with dramatically altered images. A gaunt face, sharpened features, prominent lips, and a reshaped nose graced her posts. However, doubts about the authenticity of these transformations arose, as many speculated her photos were digitally retouched or falsified.
Her internet following was substantial, and at its peak, her Instagram account, @sahartabar_official, boasted nearly four million followers. It has since been taken down. Despite her mother’s disapproval of her social media antics, Sahar expressed a relentless desire for recognition. “Cyberspace was an easy way,” she remarked, suggesting it was simpler than pursuing an acting career.
Behind the Facade
“Whenever I release a photo, I playfully paint my face. It’s a form of self-expression, crafting my own version of art,” Sahar revealed in an interview with Russian outlet Sputnik. “My fans are aware it’s not my actual face.” She further clarified, “Emulating Jolie wasn’t my goal, nor did I intend to look like the Corpse Bride. While comparisons may arise, I am my muse, and it’s not my aim to emulate anyone.”
The discourse around her antics created substantial confusion among followers and observers alike. Things took a stark turn in October 2019 when Sahar was apprehended, charged with sharing “blasphemous” images on Instagram. Additionally, she faced accusations of illegal activities, promoting public disorder, negatively influencing the youth, acquiring monetary gains through improper channels, and defying Iran’s strict women’s dress code. Her sentence of 10 years was served in the infamous Qarchak Prison, known for its harsh conditions for female inmates.
A Call for Angelina Jolie’s Support
The tale of the ‘Zombie Angelina Jolie’ reached the ears of Iranian activist Masih Alinejad, who rallied for Sahar’s release on social media. “Sahar Tabar is a mere 19. Her antics have unjustly landed her behind bars. Her mother weeps daily, yearning for her daughter’s freedom. Angelina Jolie, we need your support,” she pleaded.
After enduring a 14-month incarceration, Sahar gained her freedom, seemingly influenced by the unfortunate passing of Mahsa Amini, who met a tragic fate following her arrest for a hijab-related offense.
