10 Incredible Facts About Mahnaz Afshar: The Acclaimed Iranian Actress

Early Life and Personal Background

Mahnaz Afshar was born into a family of Turkish origin from Tabriz. She completed her high school education in experimental sciences and studied editing for four years at a non-profit institution. Initially, her family, due to their religious orientation, was against her pursuit of an acting career. However, she received professional training in acting classes conducted by Hamid Saarigian.

In June 2013, Mahnaz Afshar married Yasin Ramin, son of Mohammad Ali Ramin, a former deputy press minister of Culture and Islamic Guidance during Mahmoud Ahmadinejad’s presidency. Their wedding was officiated by Seyyed Mohammad Khatami, a former president of Iran. The couple welcomed their daughter, Liana, in May 2014. In October 2018, Mahnaz announced her separation from Yasin Ramin via an Instagram post, emphasizing her role as a single mother. Despite this, Yasin Ramin stated in a December 2023 interview with BBC Farsi that they remain life partners.

Acting Career

Mahnaz Afshar began her acting career with the TV series “Gomshede” in 1998. Her film debut came a year later with “Dostan,” directed by Ali Shahhatami. She gained significant media attention and popularity partly due to her resemblance to the famous Iranian singer Googoosh. Throughout the 2000s, Afshar became a prominent figure in Iranian commercial cinema, taking on diverse roles and working with various directors. Her efforts to diversify her acting portfolio earned her numerous awards and critical acclaim.

In 2013, she starred in “Teacher,” a film directed by renowned Tajik director Nasser Saidaf, further establishing her international presence.