In 2017, Iranian Instagram influencer Sahar Tabar, born Fatemah Khishvand, became a viral sensation, captivating the internet with her surreal and exaggerated resemblance to actress Angelina Jolie. Garnering over 400,000 followers, Sahar’s dramatic transformation sparked worldwide interest and curiosity.

The Viral Sensation

Sahar reportedly underwent a staggering count of over 50 plastic surgeries and lost around 90 pounds to achieve her striking transformation. However, she later clarified that her eye-catching looks predominantly came from a combination of makeup, photo editing, and a handful of cosmetic enhancements, including rhinoplasty, liposuction, and Botox. She emphasized viewing her photos as forms of “art,” rather than a mere attempt at imitation of Jolie.

Plastic Surgery Culture in Iran

Iran has established itself as a hub for cosmetic surgery, boasting one of the highest rates of nose surgeries globally. For years, cosmetic enhancements have been a common trend among young Iranians. Despite facing family disapproval, particularly from her mother, Sahar embraced the pursuit of fame via social media.

Controversy and Arrest

As Sahar’s popularity surged, so did the criticism directed at her from both followers and the Iranian government. While many admired her “before” images for their natural beauty, others accused her of excessive transformation. In October 2019, the Iranian authorities escalated their concerns, arresting Sahar on charges of corruption and blasphemy. Her Instagram account was deactivated, and she was sentenced to 10 years in prison by December 2020.

Human rights activists, including Masih Alinejad, raised their voices against Sahar’s imprisonment, labeling it as unjust and calling for intervention from international celebrities like Angelina Jolie. “Her mother cries daily for her release. We need Angelina Jolie’s voice. Help us,” Alinejad urged through social media channels.

Release and Realization

In 2021, after serving only 14 months of her sentence, Sahar was released, likely in response to rising public protests against the Iranian regime. Upon her release, she appeared on Iranian television, revealing her true appearance. She confessed to having undergone some cosmetic treatments but reiterated that many of her images had been digitally altered to create an exaggerated visual impact.

Lessons from Sahar Tabar’s Story

Sahar’s journey sheds light on the mounting pressures associated with social media stardom, cultural dynamics, and the delicate balance between self-expression and societal scrutiny. Her narrative serves as a reminder of the complexities intertwined with viral recognition and the need for empathy towards others’ personal choices.

While Sahar sought to gain attention through her unconventional artistry, her case highlights broader concerns regarding personal freedom, governmental overreach, and the significant effects of public perception.