Shohreh Aghdashloo is an Iranian-American actress known for her distinctive deep voice, commanding screen presence, and powerful performances across film and television. She has had a long and illustrious career spanning over four decades, earning acclaim for her roles in Hollywood and international cinema. Aghdashloo’s work often explores themes of identity, exile, and strength, reflecting both her personal journey and the depth she brings to every character.
From her breakthrough performance in House of Sand and Fog to her memorable role in The Expanse, Aghdashloo has captivated audiences with her ability to portray complex and emotionally rich characters. This article takes an in-depth look at some of her most notable movies and TV shows, showcasing the breadth of her talent.
Early Career and Breakthrough in Hollywood
Shohreh Aghdashloo was born in Tehran, Iran, in 1952 and began her acting career in Iranian cinema before moving to the United States following the 1979 Iranian Revolution. She initially took on minor roles in independent films but eventually made her breakthrough in Hollywood with House of Sand and Fog (2003), a performance that earned her an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actress.
Movies Featuring Shohreh Aghdashloo
1. House of Sand and Fog (2003)
Aghdashloo’s role as Nadi Behrani in House of Sand and Fog remains one of her most celebrated performances. The film, based on the novel by Andre Dubus III, tells the heartbreaking story of an Iranian immigrant family that buys a house in a government auction, only to find themselves in a tragic legal dispute with the former owner. Opposite Ben Kingsley and Jennifer Connelly, Aghdashloo delivered a raw and deeply emotional performance, portraying a woman caught between loyalty to her husband and the painful realities of their new life in America.
2. The Nativity Story (2006)
In this biblical drama, Aghdashloo played Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. The Nativity Story explores the events leading up to the birth of Jesus, and Aghdashloo’s performance added a sense of warmth and wisdom to the film. Her portrayal of Elizabeth was praised for its depth, showcasing her ability to bring grace and dignity to historical and religious figures.
3. X-Men: The Last Stand (2006)
Aghdashloo had a smaller yet impactful role in X-Men: The Last Stand, where she played Dr. Kavita Rao, a scientist working on a controversial cure for mutants. Though her screen time was limited, her performance added a layer of ethical complexity to the film’s central debate about mutation and identity.
4. The Stoning of Soraya M. (2008)
One of her most intense and harrowing roles came in The Stoning of Soraya M., where she played Zahra, a courageous woman who fights to expose the injustice of a brutal stoning in a small Iranian village. The film, based on a true story, was a harrowing look at human rights abuses, and Aghdashloo’s performance was universally praised for its emotional depth and authenticity.
5. Star Trek Beyond (2016)
Aghdashloo entered the Star Trek universe as Commodore Paris in Star Trek Beyond. Though a minor role, her authoritative presence as a high-ranking Starfleet official was a perfect fit, demonstrating her ability to bring gravitas to even the smallest parts.
6. Run Sweetheart Run (2020)
In this horror-thriller, Aghdashloo played a mysterious and enigmatic character, adding a chilling and suspenseful element to the story. Her role, though not central, was memorable for the eerie aura she brought to the film.
Shohreh Aghdashloo’s TV Roles
Aghdashloo’s television work is just as impressive as her film career. She has appeared in a variety of shows, from political dramas to sci-fi epics, often playing powerful and intelligent women.
1. 24 (2005)
In season 4 of 24, Aghdashloo played Dina Araz, a ruthless terrorist posing as a suburban mother. Her performance was chilling, showcasing her ability to balance menace with deep, complex motivations. The role added a layer of emotional conflict to the show, as she played a mother torn between her devotion to her cause and her love for her son.
2. House of Saddam (2008)
Aghdashloo starred as Sajida Talfah, the wife of Saddam Hussein, in HBO’s miniseries House of Saddam. Her performance was both commanding and tragic, giving insight into the inner workings of one of history’s most infamous dictatorships. This role won her a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Miniseries.
3. The Expanse (2015–2022)
Perhaps her most famous TV role came as Chrisjen Avasarala in The Expanse, the critically acclaimed sci-fi series based on James S.A. Corey’s novels. Playing the politically shrewd and sharp-tongued U.N. Secretary-General, Aghdashloo’s performance was a fan favorite. Her portrayal of Avasarala as a formidable and intelligent leader made her one of the most compelling characters in the series.
4. Grimm (2013)
In Grimm, Aghdashloo guest-starred as Stefania Vaduva Popescu, a powerful and cunning Hexenbiest. Her performance added a layer of mystique and danger to the supernatural crime drama, making her one of the most memorable guest stars of the series.
5. Arcane (2021)
Aghdashloo lent her distinct voice to Arcane, the critically acclaimed Netflix animated series based on League of Legends. She voiced Grayson, an enforcer with a strong moral compass, showcasing her ability to bring life to animated characters with the same intensity as her live-action performances.
The Legacy of Shohreh Aghdashloo
Shohreh Aghdashloo’s career is a testament to her immense talent and resilience. From powerful dramatic performances to commanding roles in science fiction and political thrillers, she has left an indelible mark on both Hollywood and television. Her ability to play strong, intelligent, and layered characters has made her a beloved figure in entertainment.
With her unmistakable voice and formidable presence, Aghdashloo continues to inspire audiences and fellow actors alike. Whether in a gripping drama, a thrilling sci-fi series, or a voice role in animation, her performances remain unforgettable, cementing her legacy as one of the most talented and influential actresses of her generation.