Iran Upholds Death Sentence for Pop Star Tataloo on Blasphemy Charges

Iran’s Supreme Court has confirmed the death sentence against popular pop singer Amir Hossein Maghsoudloo, known by his stage name Tataloo, on charges of blasphemy, according to a judiciary spokesman on Saturday.

Tataloo, who was extradited from Turkey to Iran in December 2023, was originally sentenced to five years in prison by Tehran’s Criminal Court for blasphemy. However, the Supreme Court later overturned this verdict, referring the case to another court, which imposed the death penalty.

Judiciary spokesman Asghar Jahangir said the ruling “has now been confirmed and is ready for execution.” He also noted that the singer’s lawyer has submitted two requests—a retrial and a plea for clemency—that are currently under formal review, with a decision expected in due course.

Tataloo was also handed a 10-year prison sentence for “promoting corruption and prostitution” and spreading “propaganda” against the Islamic Republic, charges for which he is currently serving time.

Known for his heavily tattooed appearance and outspoken style, the singer has been a controversial figure in Iran’s music scene. Despite his clashes with authorities, he had received support from conservative politicians, including the late president Ebrahim Raisi, who sought to connect with younger Iranians. In 2015, under then-President Hassan Rouhani, Tataloo released a pro-nuclear deal anthem that was promoted by state media.

Before his arrest and extradition, Tataloo had been living in Istanbul since 2018.