A new drama series, The Last Shah, is currently in development, set to depict the tumultuous era of Iran’s last monarchy. Inspired by Netflix’s hit series The Crown, the show will dramatize the reign of Mohammad Reza Pahlavi, starting from his ascent to the throne during World War II and culminating in the 1979 Islamic Revolution and the US embassy hostage crisis in Tehran.
Produced by Morrie Rosmarin’s Random Access Media, The Last Shah promises a rich narrative filled with personal and political drama. The series will spotlight the life of the young Shah and his third wife, Queen Farah Pahlavi, known for her elegance and progressive views, much like Jackie Kennedy. Their story is described as “a heroic and ultimately tragic tale of a wife, mother, and queen trying to save her husband, the Shah of Iran, her family, her dynasty, and her homeland.”
Set against a backdrop of religious upheaval and palace intrigue, the series aims to weave a complex story reflecting the significant historical events that shaped not only Iran but also its relations with the world.
Rosmarin, who crafted the pilot episode, brings a wealth of experience as a former investigative journalist and a filmmaker focused on Middle Eastern conflicts. His work aims to shed light on a period when Iran was a key ally of the United States and Israel, contrasting sharply with the country’s current political landscape.The Last Shah is set to be a captivating addition to television, offering viewers a glimpse into a critical period of Iranian history through the eyes of its last monarch and his queen.