Viral Show Season 5 Episode 4: Azadeh Pourakbar: From Behind the Scenes to the Challenges of “Zan Rooz”
When the name Azadeh Pourakbar is mentioned, most audiences think of a calm, friendly, yet determined personality a woman who has established a strong position in the fashion and style scene of Turkey. In this exclusive interview by Alara Entertainment’s Viral Show, she sincerely shares her experiences as a judge on “Zan Rooz”, talks about the behind-the-scenes challenges, fashion debates, and her journey from Gorgan to Istanbul.
An Unexpected Invitation to Judge
Azadeh Pourakbar explains that joining the show was not part of her initial plans. It was the production team’s invitation that opened a new chapter in her professional life.
“They asked me to join Zan Rooz as a judge. I made it clear from the beginning that I didn’t want to replace anyone’s position. Thankfully, they assured me that my participation was entirely independent and based on my own profile.”
Interestingly, before filming Zan Rooz, she had been in talks for a similar project that was later canceled allowing Zan Rooz to begin shooting earlier. That became the start of her official appearance in one of the most-watched Iranian reality shows.
Seamless Collaboration With Other Judges
While some social media users speculate about “Shirin Moghadam” returning in the next season, Pourakbar’s attitude is calm and diplomatic: “I have no problem with any judge. If Ms. Moghadam or anyone else returns for the next season, I’ll happily work alongside them. My focus is on the quality of the show.”
Despite her composed demeanor, she has a remarkable ability to manage tense situations. “Sometimes these arguments between contestants actually make the show more engaging! Of course, I always try to keep things balanced and prevent conflicts from going too far.”
The Reality Behind the Camera
According to Azadeh, the backstage and makeup room arguments are entirely real and unscripted. “This show is a competition, not a friendship class! Contestants are supposed to fight to win. Even I’m shocked when I later rewatch some episodes.”
She adds that her style of judging combines steady observation and timely calmness one of the reasons audiences appreciate her level-headed presence.
The “Eye Roll” Controversy With Farnaz
One of the most viral clips online showed fellow judge “Farnaz Soleimani” eye-rolling at her. But Pourakbar laughs it off: “I’m not into chasing drama. The next day, Farnaz herself came to me and said it was just editing that caused the misunderstanding. We actually have a great relationship backstage!”
She jokes: “It wasn’t an eye roll or jealousy it was more like a playful glance!”
The “Copycat” Fashion Debate
Another hot topic was about contestant “Mahla,” accused of copying her looks from Pinterest and foreign brands. Azadeh agrees there was truth in the rumor but finds the criticism exaggerated: “Yes, later we realized some outfits were directly bought from the brand’s window display and not self-styled. But many stylists do that! Mahla has great taste and shouldn’t be judged harshly for a few mistakes.”
Her Personality and Connection With Contestants
One of Azadeh’s most defining traits is her warmth toward contestants. Unlike distant judges, she engages with humor, dance, and friendliness off-camera.
“I always have a friendly relationship with my students and models. But I’m also very strict in my work. If anyone takes advantage of my kindness, my attitude changes completely!” she says. “I’m a mother, a teacher, a designer, and life is quite hectic I have one son and three dogs! But that’s what makes life fun for me.”
Career Milestones
Born in Gorgan, Iran, Azadeh studied computer engineering and later earned a master’s in psychology. After teaching at a university in Iran, she migrated to Turkey eight years ago, where she studied fashion design in Istanbul and soon launched her own brand.
“I teach fashion design, organize fashion shows, and judge international modeling competitions.” Learning Turkish, she says, was one of the key challenges that shaped her growth in the global fashion scene.
The Challenges of Filming
She recalls the early filming days as extremely demanding: “By the fourth day, I was so exhausted that I cried and said I couldn’t continue. Some shooting days lasted until 4 a.m. But the audience’s positive feedback made it all worth it.”
She praises the Turkish production crew: “The Med Yapım team behind famous series like Forbidden Apple and Unfaithful is producing this show. It’s truly an honor that such a professional team is creating an Iranian version of a fashion reality show.”
Professionalism and Production Quality
Pourakbar emphasizes that Zan Rooz meets international standards. “Over a hundred professionals work behind the scenes from cameramen and lighting experts to directors and stylists. Viewers should appreciate and support a show that pushes boundaries with such quality workmanship.”
Fashion, Originality, and Judge Style
She adds about her wardrobe: “For Season 1, I chose twenty different outfits — sixteen of them were from my own brand. I avoid wearing outfits that match the contestants’ themes. It’s important not to create unfair comparisons.”
This attention to detail and self-awareness has made her one of the most trusted and respected judges on the panel.
Judging Philosophy and Contest Quality
When asked about giving a contestant a perfect score, she explains: “You can’t compare these contestants’ creations to global fashion shows. They work under time pressure with limited resources. If someone stays up all night to bring an idea to life, that dedication deserves recognition.”
Dealing With Online Hate
Azadeh admits she expected criticism from the start: “Honestly, I’m not thick-skinned! I even posted a story saying, ‘Please don’t curse me I can’t handle it!’ But the response was surprisingly positive. Some people later messaged me apologizing for negative comments and said they’d deleted them.”
She smiles: “When you’re on screen, it comes with the job. You either stay out of the spotlight or accept everything that comes with it. I focus on the love, not the hate.”
Looking Ahead: Season 6
When asked about her return for the next season, Azadeh confidently replies: “With permission from the seniors yes! I’ll be back on the panel. It was an amazing experience, and I can’t wait to continue.”
Conclusion: The Calm Judge With a Fighter Spirit
Throughout the interview, Azadeh Pourakbar reveals a rare balance of inner calm and strong determination. Despite her busy schedule and multiple roles as a mother and designer, she remains dedicated to promoting Iranian fashion culture globally.
Her presence in Zan Rooz not only redefines judging but also represents a modern image of Iranian women thriving internationally proving that fashion is more than clothing; it’s a universal language of creativity and self-expression.
Watch the full episode: Visit Alara Entertainment’s YouTube channel and don’t miss Viral Show Season 5 Episode 4. Don’t forget to subscribe!
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