“This Is Not My Real Face”

In an interview with the Russian outlet Sputnik, Tabar revealed that her dramatic appearance was largely an artistic expression. “Every time I publish a photo, I paint my face in an increasingly funny way. It is a way of expressing yourself, a kind of art. My fans know that this is not my real face,” she stated. Tabar clarified that she never intended to resemble Angelina Jolie or Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride, saying, “I am a muse myself, and remembering someone is not an end in itself.”

Arrest and Sentencing

In October 2019, Sahar Tabar was arrested for her controversial Instagram posts. The charges against her included promoting blasphemy, illegally acquiring property, inciting violence, negatively influencing youth, earning income through inappropriate means, and violating Iran’s strict dress code for women. She was sentenced to ten years in prison and detained at Qarchak Prison, a facility notorious for its harsh conditions.

Calls for Justice

Tabar’s arrest sparked outrage, with Iranian activist Masih Alinejad highlighting her plight. Alinejad took to social media, pleading for intervention from Angelina Jolie. “Sahar Tabar is only 19. Her joke landed her in jail. Her mother cries every day to get her innocent daughter freed. Dear Angelina Jolie, we need your voice here. Help us,” Alinejad wrote.

Release After 14 Months

After serving 14 months of her sentence, Sahar Tabar was released. Her release coincided with public outrage over the death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who died after being arrested and beaten by Iranian authorities for allegedly wearing her hijab incorrectly. Tabar’s case remains a controversial example of the consequences of challenging societal norms and censorship in Iran.