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Famous and Influential Iranian People

Discover the most famous Iranians and Persians throughout history and today. From legendary poets like Rumi and Hafez, to global celebrities in film, sports, and fashion, Iranians have made an impact both in Iran and worldwide. This page is your guide to the most influential Persian people, with links to detailed categories like actors, athletes, filmmakers, and more.

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Who is the most famous Iranian celebrity?

One of the most famous Iranian celebrities is Googoosh, whose music and film career span six decades and remain iconic among Persian communities worldwide. Other global names include Shohreh Aghdashloo, known for her Hollywood roles, and Asghar Farhadi, whose films have won Academy Awards—each contributing to Iran’s presence in international culture.

Who is the most famous Iranian in history?

Historically, Cyrus the Great is widely regarded as the most famous Iranian in world history, founder of the Achaemenid Empire, known for his policies of tolerance and early human rights principles. His legacy continues to influence Iranian identity and global historical narratives about Persia.

Who is the most successful Iranian ever?

One of the most successful Iranians is Pierre Omidyar, the founder of eBay, whose net worth has exceeded $10 billion. His entrepreneurial success, global impact, and philanthropic work make him a leading example of Iranian success in the tech and business world. Also highly successful are Dara Khosrowshahi (CEO of Uber) and Ali & Hadi Partovi (co-founders/investors in tech ventures like Dropbox, Code.org). These individuals demonstrate success in tech, investment, and global business.

Who is the richest Iranian ever?

The richest Iranian ever is generally recognized to be Pierre Omidyar, with a net worth around $10.4 billion, born to Iranian parents. He tops most published lists of individuals of Iranian descent in terms of wealth.

Looking for more? Dive into our pages on the Persian cuisine, Persian Names, or the visual timeline of Iran to explore Iran's rich heritage beyond its famous people.

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