Iranian Court Sentences Pop Singer Tataloo to Death Over Blasphemy
An Iranian court has sentenced Amir Hossein Maghsoudloo, better known as Tataloo, to death after convicting him of blasphemy, according to local media reports on Sunday.
The Supreme Court overturned a previous ruling that sentenced the underground musician to five years in prison, following an objection by the prosecutor. The reformist newspaper Etemad reported that the court’s decision was a result of insulting the Prophet Muhammad, a charge that is viewed as extremely serious under Iranian law. However, the ruling is not final and could still be appealed.
Tataloo, aged 37, had been living in Istanbul since 2018, but was extradited to Iran in December 2023 after being handed over by Turkish authorities. Since his return, he has been in detention in Iran.
Apart from the blasphemy charge, Tataloo was also sentenced to 10 years in prison for allegedly promoting prostitution, and other charges including spreading propaganda against the Islamic Republic and publishing obscene content. These charges add to his growing list of controversies with the authorities.
Known for his unique blend of rap, pop, and R&B, Tataloo has become a polarizing figure in Iran. His heavily tattooed appearance, along with his rebellious style, made him immensely popular among younger, more liberal-minded Iranians, but also made him a target of government scrutiny. Despite his underground status, Tataloo attracted attention from conservative politicians in the past, particularly in 2017 when he held a televised meeting with Ebrahim Raisi, a presidential candidate who later became Iran’s president.
Tataloo also gained attention internationally in 2015 when he released a song in support of Iran’s nuclear program, which faced setbacks after the United States withdrew from the nuclear deal in 2018 under President Donald Trump.
The court’s decision has sparked reactions both in Iran and internationally, with human rights groups raising concerns over the freedom of expression and the use of the death penalty for non-violent offenses.
