Sahar Tabar, born Fatemeh Khishvand in Iran, gained fame through her dramatic transformation to resemble Hollywood star Angelina Jolie. Tabar’s numerous plastic surgeries, including liposuction and rhinoplasty, sparked significant online debate and controversy. Known as «Iran’s Zombie Angelina Jolie,» she was sentenced to ten years in prison.

At 19, Tabar reportedly underwent over 50 surgeries to achieve her distinct look, although she never directly claimed to want to imitate Jolie. Her followers, however, believed otherwise. She flaunted her new appearance on social media, displaying sharp cheekbones, prominent lips, and a heavily altered nose. There is speculation that her photos might have been digitally altered rather than the result of actual surgeries.

Tabar’s social media presence, particularly on Instagram where she amassed nearly four million followers under @sahartabar_official, drew considerable attention. Despite her mother’s objections, Sahar pursued her online persona, driven by the desire for fame. She commented, “Cyberspace provided an easy path, much simpler than pursuing an acting career.”

In an interview with Russian website Sputnik, Sahar revealed that her appearance was not real. She stated, “Every time I post a photo, I enhance my face in a more humorous way. It’s a form of self-expression, a sort of art. My followers know this isn’t my real face.” She clarified, “I never intended to mimic Jolie or the Corpse Bride character. I realize there may be resemblances, but I see myself as a muse, not a copy of someone else.”

This admission confused many of her followers. In October 2019, Tabar was arrested for posting images deemed blasphemous on Instagram and faced charges including illegal property acquisition, incitement to violence, corrupting youth, earning unorthodox income, and violating the country’s strict dress code for women. She was sentenced to ten years in Qarchak Prison, notorious for its harsh conditions.

Activist Masih Alinejad urged Angelina Jolie to help Sahar, posting on social media, “Sahar Tabar is just 19. A joke has landed her in jail. Her mother cries daily for the release of her innocent daughter. Dear Angelina Jolie, your voice is needed here. Please help us.”

Sahar was released after serving 14 months, coinciding with the death of Mahsa Amini, who had been arrested and beaten by Iranian police for improper hijab wear.