Famous Iranian Film & Theater Personalities

Golshifteh Farahani, an Iranian and French actress, has garnered acclaim for her versatile performances in a range of international films. Known for her roles in notable movies such as M for Mother, Body of Lies, About Elly, The Patience Stone, Paterson, Girls of the Sun, Extraction, Extraction 2, and Invasion, she has demonstrated her talent and range as an actress. Her work has earned her recognition, including a nomination for the Most Promising Actress Award at the prestigious César Awards for her role in The Patience Stone.

Navid Negahban is an Iranian-American actor known for his versatile performances in television and film. He has showcased his talent in popular TV series such as "24," "Homeland," and "Mistresses." Negahban gained widespread recognition for his portrayal of Amahl Farouk/Shadow King in FX's "Legion." Additionally, he starred as The Sultan in the live-action remake of "Aladdin." With his compelling acting skills, Negahban has established himself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with his diverse roles and impeccable performances.

Abbas Kiarostami was an influential Iranian film director, screenwriter, poet, photographer, and film producer. He gained critical acclaim for his works, including the Koker trilogy, Close-Up, The Wind Will Carry Us, and Taste of Cherry, which won the Palme d'Or at Cannes. Known for his use of child protagonists, rural settings, and stationary mounted cameras in cars, Kiarostami was a key figure in the Iranian New Wave cinema movement. His films often blended elements of fiction and documentary, infused with Persian poetry and themes of change, continuity, life, and death.

Asghar Farhadi is an influential Iranian film director and screenwriter known for his focus on the human condition and intimate portrayals of internal family conflicts. His work has garnered acclaim in both Iranian and world cinema, with films like A Separation and The Salesman winning Academy Awards for Best International Feature Film. Farhadi has also received recognition at prestigious events such as the Cannes Film Festival and was included on the Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world.

Maz Jobrani is an accomplished American comedian and actor known for his involvement in the "Axis of Evil" comedy group and appearances in various films, television shows, and comedy clubs. He has showcased his talent in projects such as The Interpreter, Friday After Next, and Jimmy Vestvood: Amerikan Hero. Jobrani has also been a regular character on the CBS sitcom Superior Donuts and served as an advisory board member of the National Iranian American Council (NIAC). His diverse career highlights his versatility and success in the entertainment industry.

Soraya Esfandiary-Bakhtiary had a brief career as an actress after her divorce from the Shah of Iran. Following her separation, she pursued opportunities in the entertainment industry, including a relationship with Italian film director Franco Indovina. Soraya eventually settled in Paris, where she lived independently until her passing.

Googoosh, an Iranian singer and former actress, has had a career spanning over six decades, earning her status as a cultural icon in Iran and abroad. Known for her contributions to Iranian pop music and roles in Persian movies from the 1950s to the 1970s, she reached the peak of her fame in the late 1970s. Despite a hiatus from performing due to the ban on female singers after the Iranian Revolution in 1979, Googoosh made a triumphant return to the stage in 2000, captivating audiences worldwide with concerts and recordings in multiple languages.

Desiree Akhavan is an American filmmaker, writer, and actress known for her notable works in the film industry. She gained recognition for her 2014 feature film debut, "Appropriate Behavior," which showcased her talent as a filmmaker. In 2018, Akhavan directed "The Miseducation of Cameron Post," another successful film that further established her reputation in the industry. Additionally, she appeared in the found footage horror film "Creep 2," showcasing her versatility as an actress. Akhavan's career is marked by a dedication to storytelling and a unique perspective in her creative endeavors.

Marshall Manesh is an Iranian-American actor known for his work in film and television. With a career spanning several decades, he has appeared in a variety of roles across different genres. Manesh has showcased his versatility through performances in both comedic and dramatic projects, earning recognition for his talent and dedication to his craft. His memorable portrayals have left a lasting impact on audiences, establishing him as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Shohreh Aghdashloo is an accomplished Iranian actress who has received critical acclaim and various awards for her work in film and television. After establishing herself as one of Iran's leading actresses, she moved to England and later became a U.S. citizen. Aghdashloo's breakout role came in the film "House of Sand and Fog," which earned her widespread recognition and award nominations. She is best known for her roles in TV series such as "24" and "The Expanse," as well as her voice work in projects like "Arcane" and "Assassin's Creed Mirage."

Behrouz Vossoughi is a renowned Iranian actor who has made significant contributions to the fields of television, radio, and theatre. His impressive body of work has garnered him recognition at various international film festivals, including prestigious awards such as Best Actor at the International Film Festival of India in 1974 and the San Francisco International Film Festival in 2006. With a successful career spanning decades, Vossoughi has established himself as a talented and versatile actor with a strong presence in the global film industry.

Fereshteh Hosseini is a talented Afghan-Iranian actress known for her outstanding performances in various films. With notable roles in films such as Parting, Rona, Azim's Mother, and The Frog, she has garnered critical acclaim and recognition for her acting skills. Her portrayal in Parting earned her the prestigious Best Actress award at the 16th Marrakech International Film Festival, showcasing her versatility and talent in the industry. Fereshteh Hosseini continues to make a significant impact in the world of cinema with her compelling performances and dedication to her craft.

Narges Rashidi is an American-German actress of Iranian descent who has made a name for herself in independent films and television productions. She gained widespread acclaim for her starring role in the 2016 film "Under the Shadow" by Babak Anvari, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival. Rashidi's performance was praised for its intensity and fine-grained portrayal of a progressive-minded Iranian woman. Her work has been described as rich in both motherly love and scream-queen abandon, showcasing her versatility and talent as an actress.

Lina Leandersson is a talented Swedish-Iranian actress known for her portrayal of the lead character Eli in the 2008 film Let the Right One In. Her performance in this romantic vampire film, based on a popular novel, garnered critical acclaim and established her as a promising young talent in the industry. With her captivating presence on screen and ability to bring depth to her characters, Leandersson has proven herself as a versatile actress capable of taking on challenging and memorable roles.

Ramin Karimloo is a versatile Canadian actor, singer, and songwriter renowned for his remarkable performances in London's West End and New York's Broadway theatre. He has portrayed iconic roles in major musical productions, including The Phantom and Raoul de Chagny in The Phantom of the Opera, as well as Jean Valjean, Enjolras, and Marius Pontmercy in Les Misérables. Karimloo has also originated leading roles in Anastasia and Funny Girl, showcasing his exceptional talent and earning critical acclaim. Additionally, his Broadway debut in Les Misérables garnered him a Tony Award nomination, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the theatre world.

Majid Majidi is a renowned Iranian filmmaker and producer known for his diverse exploration of themes and genres in cinema. Throughout his career, he has created impactful films that have garnered international acclaim and won numerous prestigious awards. Majidi's work showcases his talent for storytelling and his ability to evoke deep emotions and connections with audiences worldwide. With a remarkable body of work, he has solidified his reputation as a prolific and influential figure in the world of cinema.

Fereydoun Farrokhzad was a multifaceted Iranian figure, excelling as a showman, host, poet, actor, political activist, singer, humanitarian, and writer. He gained prominence through his television variety show, The Silver Carnation, which provided a platform for numerous artists to showcase their talents. Farrokhzad's impact on the Iranian entertainment scene was significant, as he introduced and promoted many renowned artists. However, his career took a tragic turn post the Islamic Revolution when he was forced into exile and eventually met an untimely demise in Germany, allegedly orchestrated by the Islamic Republic government.

Zahra Amir Ebrahimi is an Iranian-French actress, producer, and director known for her acclaimed performance in the crime thriller Holy Spider (2022). She has garnered international recognition, winning prestigious awards such as the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actress and Robert Award for Best Actress. Amir Ebrahimi is also a prominent figure at the BBC, serving as a producer, host, and overseeing a cultural program for the Persian branch of BBC World. Her influence and inspiration have been acknowledged through appearances on the BBC's 100 Women list.

Hossein Amini is an accomplished Iranian-born British screenwriter and film director with a career spanning from the early 1990s. He gained recognition for his work on the film "The Wings of the Dove," earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Writing – Adapted Screenplay. Amini's talent was further acknowledged when he received the "Best Adapted Screenplay" award from the Austin Film Critics Association for his adaptation of "Drive." He also showcased his skills as a director with "The Two Faces of January," based on a novel by Patricia Highsmith.

Mandana Karimi is an Iranian actress and model who has established herself in the Indian entertainment industry. With a successful career in modeling, she transitioned to acting and made her mark as a lead in the Bollywood film "Bhaag Johnny." Karimi gained further recognition by participating in the reality TV show "Bigg Boss 9," where she finished as the 2nd runner up in 2015. Her versatility and talent have solidified her presence in both the modeling and acting realms, earning her a loyal fan base.

Mohammad Ali Fardin was a prominent Iranian actor, film director, and freestyle wrestler who achieved great success in Iranian cinema starting in the late 1950s. Known for his portrayal of masculinity and chivalry, Fardin captivated audiences for two decades with his iconic performances. He was the undisputed box office champion of his era, starring in the most popular movies of the year in Iranian cinema between 1961 and 1976. Fardin also had success in wrestling, winning a silver medal in the 1954 World Championship before transitioning to a successful career in film.

Irán Eory was an Iranian-born actress who gained fame in Mexico during the late 1960s. After moving to Mexico, she quickly established herself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Eory's talent and charisma helped her secure various roles in film, television, and theater, showcasing her versatility as an actress. Her performances captivated audiences and earned her a loyal following. Throughout her career, Eory continued to impress with her acting skills and contributed significantly to the Mexican entertainment scene.

Melika Foroutan is a renowned German-Iranian actress known for her versatile performances in film, television, and theater. With a career spanning over two decades, she has portrayed a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity. Foroutan has worked on numerous critically acclaimed projects, showcasing her talent and commitment to her craft. She has earned praise for her ability to bring complex roles to life with nuance and skill, establishing herself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Ali Hatami was a prominent figure in Iranian cinema, known for his versatile talents as a film director, screenwriter, art director, and costume designer. He gained recognition for the poetic ambiance present in his movies, earning him the title "the Hafez of Iranian cinema" by The Tehran Times. Throughout his career, Hatami showcased a unique artistic vision and a deep understanding of storytelling, leaving a lasting impact on the Iranian film industry with his innovative works and contributions to the art of cinema.

Nina Zanjani is a talented Swedish actress known for her work in film and television. She gained recognition for her role as Yasmin in Helena Bergström's acclaimed film "Mind the Gap," where she portrayed one of the two lead characters. Zanjani's performance in the movie showcased her versatility and skill as an actress. With a strong presence on screen, she has captivated audiences with her performances and continues to establish herself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

Shaghayegh Farahani is a talented Iranian actress known for her versatile performances in film and television. With a career spanning several decades, she has established herself as a prominent figure in the Iranian entertainment industry. Farahani's acting skills and dedication to her craft have earned her critical acclaim and a loyal fan following. She has portrayed a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity, showcasing her ability to bring complex roles to life on screen. Farahani continues to impress audiences with her passion for acting and commitment to her art.

Jasmin Tabatabai is a versatile German actress and singer of Persian descent. She has made a name for herself in the entertainment industry with her talent and dedication. Tabatabai has showcased her acting skills in a variety of film and television projects, earning critical acclaim for her performances. As a singer, she has released several successful albums and collaborated with various artists. Tabatabai's career is marked by her versatility, charisma, and passion for her craft, making her a respected figure in the German entertainment scene.

Enissa Amani is an Iranian-German comedian, artist, and activist known for her groundbreaking achievements in the entertainment industry. As the first European woman with an international Netflix special, she has made a significant impact with her comedy that delves into politics, social issues, racism, and ethnicity. Amani's work extends beyond stand-up, as she also produced and hosted a viral panel talk on racism, earning her the prestigious Grimme Online Award. Her unique perspective and fearless approach to challenging topics have solidified her reputation as a trailblazer in the world of comedy and activism.

Aylar Lie is an Iranian-Norwegian professional who has established herself in various entertainment fields. She is known for her work as an actress, model, and singer, having appeared in music videos for Swedish musician Basshunter. Aylar gained recognition through her participation in the Norwegian Big Brother reality show. Additionally, she has experience as a former pornographic actress. Throughout her career, Aylar has showcased her talents in the realms of music, acting, and modeling, capturing the attention of audiences worldwide.

Bahman Ghobadi is an Iranian Kurdish film director, producer, and writer known for his contributions to the "new wave" of Iranian cinema. He has gained international recognition for his impactful storytelling and unique visual style. Ghobadi's films often focus on the struggles and experiences of the Kurdish people, shedding light on social and political issues. His work reflects a deep commitment to artistic expression and cultural representation, earning him accolades and awards in the global film industry.

Susan Taslimi is a versatile Iranian professional known for her roles as an actress, film director, theatre director, and screenwriter. She emigrated from Iran in 1987 and currently resides in Sweden, where she continues to pursue her career in the entertainment industry. Taslimi's work spans across various mediums, showcasing her talent and expertise in storytelling and performance. With a diverse skill set and international experience, she has made significant contributions to the world of cinema and theater.

Negar Khan, an Iranian-born Norwegian actress also credited as Nigar Khan, has garnered recognition for her Bollywood item songs and film contributions. With a focus on acting, she has made a mark in the industry through her versatile performances. Khan's professional journey is marked by her dedication to her craft and her ability to captivate audiences with her on-screen presence. Known for her work in Bollywood, she continues to showcase her talent and make a significant impact in the world of entertainment.

Rosie Malek-Yonan is a multi-talented Assyrian-American professional known for her work as an actress, author, director, public figure, and activist. She began her career as a pianist and later transitioned into the fields of music and dramatic arts. With a notable presence in over 30 films and television series, including well-known shows like Up Close & Personal and Rendition, she has established herself as a versatile actress. Additionally, her historical novel, The Crimson Field, focusing on the Assyrian genocide during World War I, has gained significant popularity among modern Assyrians.

Kambuzia Partovi was an accomplished Iranian film director and screenwriter known for his impactful contributions to cinema. Throughout his career, he displayed a unique storytelling style that resonated with audiences worldwide. Partovi's work was characterized by its depth, emotional resonance, and artistic integrity. He was recognized for his ability to create thought-provoking narratives that explored complex themes and human experiences. His films left a lasting impression on the industry and cemented his reputation as a visionary filmmaker with a profound understanding of the human condition.

Khosrow Sinai was a renowned Iranian film director, screenwriter, composer, poet, and scholar known for his impactful work influenced by documentaries. His focus on social and artistic subjects was evident in his films, with "Bride of Fire" standing out as one of his most acclaimed works. Sinai made history as the first Iranian director to win an international prize post the 1979 revolution, showcasing his significant contribution to the Iranian film industry. Additionally, he was honored with the Knight's Cross of the Order of Merit of the Republic of Poland for his outstanding achievements.

Niki Karimi is an accomplished Iranian actress and filmmaker who has made significant contributions to post-Islamic Revolution Iranian Cinema. She has garnered numerous accolades throughout her career, including a Crystal Simorgh, three Hafez Awards, an Iran Cinema Celebration Award, and three Iran's Film Critics and Writers Association Awards. Beginning her career in the late 1980s, Karimi gained recognition for her standout performance in the film Sara (1992), which earned her the best actress award at the San Sebastian Film Festival.

Uldouz Wallace, professionally known as Uldouz, is an Iranian actress, comedian, and improv artist who rose to fame through social media platforms like Vine and YouTube. Known for her sharp sense of humor and entertaining videos, Uldouz has successfully transitioned to mainstream comedy. Her content is diverse, ranging from comedic sketches to glimpses into her glamorous lifestyle. Uldouz is dedicated to breaking stereotypes through her work and actively engages with her fans, attributing much of her success to their support. Additionally, she explores various facets of entertainment such as acting, modeling, and fashion.

Dominic Rains is an Iranian-American actor known for his work in independent films such as The Taqwacores and A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night. He has also appeared in popular television series like Chicago Med and Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. Rains is recognized for his versatile performances and ability to bring unique characters to life on screen. With a diverse range of roles in both film and television, he continues to showcase his talent and make a mark in the entertainment industry.

Shahrokh Moshkin Ghalam is an Iranian modern dancer, choreographer, actor, and director based in Paris. He graduated in history of art and theatre from Paris 8 University. He is the founder and former artistic director of Nakissa Art Company. Notably, he is the first Iranian to be a member of the esteemed Comédie-Française troupe. His professional life revolves around his diverse talents in dance, choreography, acting, and directing, showcasing his expertise and contributions to the performing arts industry.

Mostafa Zamani is a highly acclaimed Iranian actor who has garnered recognition for his outstanding performances in the film industry. Throughout his career, he has received prestigious accolades such as the Hafez Award and two Iran Cinema Celebration Awards. Additionally, he has been nominated for esteemed honors like the Crystal Simorgh and an Iran's Film Critics and Writers Association Award. Zamani's talent and dedication to his craft have solidified his reputation as a skilled and respected actor within the Iranian entertainment industry.

Jafar Panahi is an Iranian film director, screenwriter, and film editor known for his association with the Iranian New Wave film movement. He gained international recognition with his debut feature film, The White Balloon, which won the Caméra d'Or at the 1995 Cannes Film Festival. Panahi has received critical acclaim and numerous awards for his films that offer a humanistic perspective on life in Iran, particularly focusing on the struggles of children, the impoverished, and women. Despite facing conflict with the Iranian government, he has continued to produce impactful and award-winning films.

Shahab Hosseini is a versatile Iranian actor, producer, director, and screenwriter. He has established himself as a prominent figure in the Iranian film industry through his collaborations with acclaimed director Asghar Farhadi in multiple award-winning films such as "About Elly," "A Separation," and "The Salesman." Hosseini's impressive accolades include prestigious awards like the Cannes Film Festival Award for Best Actor, a Silver Bear for Best Actor, and a Crystal Simorgh for Best Actor, showcasing his exceptional talent and contributions to the world of cinema.

Maryam Zakaria is an Iranian-born actress and model known for her work in Indian cinema. She has showcased her talent in Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil language films, gaining recognition for her roles in movies like Madatha Kaja, Agent Vinod, and Grand Masti. With a successful career in the entertainment industry, Maryam has established herself as a versatile and skilled performer, captivating audiences with her on-screen presence and performances across different genres and languages.

Mohammad Reza Golzar is a prominent Iranian actor known for his notable work in the entertainment industry. With a successful career spanning several years, he has gained recognition for his versatile performances in various film and television projects. Golzar has showcased his talent and skill through a diverse range of roles, captivating audiences with his compelling portrayals on screen. His dedication and commitment to his craft have solidified his reputation as a respected and talented actor within the Iranian entertainment community.

Tooji, professionally known as Tooji, is an Iranian-born Norwegian multi-talented artist. He is a singer, painter, model, and television host. Tooji gained international recognition when he represented Norway in the Eurovision Song Contest 2012 in Baku, Azerbaijan. Despite finishing 26th in the final, Tooji's performance showcased his skills and charisma. He continues to captivate audiences with his diverse talents, making a mark in the entertainment industry with his unique blend of music, art, and hosting abilities.

Sam Asghari is an American personal trainer, model, and actor known for his work in the entertainment industry. He gained recognition for his appearance in Britney Spears' music video "Slumber Party" and later starred in Fifth Harmony's video "Work from Home." Asghari made his film debut in the movie "Unbelievable!!!!!" in 2018. He is signed with the popular entertainment company Bac Talent and has a significant following on social media platforms like Instagram. Asghari's professional career includes modeling, acting, and personal training.

Kheiron, an Iranian-born French comedian, actor, and film director, gained international recognition as the director and star of the critically acclaimed film All Three of Us. The movie earned a nomination for the prestigious César Award for Best First Feature Film. Kheiron continued his success with the release of Bad Seeds, known as Mauvaises Herbes in French, which reached English-speaking audiences through Netflix. Through his work in film, Kheiron has showcased his talent as a multifaceted artist, earning praise for his creativity and storytelling skills.

Karim Akbari Mobarakeh was an Iranian actor and film director known for his roles in various TV series and films. He gained recognition for his portrayal of Abd-al-Rahman ibn Muljam in the Imam Ali series and Ahmar ibn Shomait in Mokhtarnameh. Mobarakeh's career was marked by his versatile acting skills and his ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters. He made significant contributions to Iranian cinema and television, leaving a lasting impact on audiences and fellow industry professionals alike.