A young woman’s accusation of sexual abuse against popular actor and former footballer Pejman Jamshidi has sparked surprise and controversy in Iran. Described as the country’s “MeToo” moment, the case has reignited public debate over women’s status in Iranian society.

The anonymous complainant alleges that 48-year-old Jamshidi raped her at his home and was later offered large sums of money to withdraw her complaint. Despite the gravity of the accusations, much of public opinion appears to support the actor, dismissing the claims as “character assassination” and “conspiracy.”

Jamshidi was released on bail and reportedly left the country “for family reasons.” In a statement, he called the allegations a “dirty smear campaign” and “lies,” promising to return soon. The artistic community remains divided, with some defending him, while others express doubt.

This case emerges amid growing momentum for Iran’s #MeToo movement, despite significant social taboos and legal barriers. The issue of sexual violence gained renewed urgency after the 2022 protests under the slogan “Woman, Life, Freedom,” following the death of Mahsa Amini at the hands of the morality police.

A Tehran-based psychologist told the German News Agency that the case reflects a common pattern in Iran: the man is often seen as the victim, while the woman’s reputation is at risk. Nevertheless, she noted, women’s voices are growing stronger and conversations about social inequalities are becoming more open.

Few prominent women have publicly supported the complainant, including actress Mariam Hondarami, who wrote on Instagram that “in a society hostile to women, speaking about your personal suffering is treated as a crime.”

Shortly after the complainant’s interview with journalist Elaleh Mohammadi was published in the Hamshahri newspaper, authorities blocked access to the website. Meanwhile, another woman in Paris has also accused Jamshidi of sexual violence.

Whether the case will proceed to trial remains uncertain. Under Iran’s Islamic law, rape can carry the death penalty, but victims also have the option to grant “forgiveness.”