Zendaya Faces Backlash Over Ancient Iranian Jewellery at Odyssey 2026

Zendaya backlash has erupted after the actress wore ancient Iranian earrings at a London photocall for Christopher Nolan's Odyssey. The earrings, fashioned from artefacts dating back to 700BC, belong to the Ziwiye hoard discovered in northwestern Iran in the 1940s. Archaeologists and cultural historians have condemned the use of these precious objects as mere accessories, calling it a "hijacking" of Iran's heritage.

The Controversy Unfolds

The earrings were sourced from Barron London, a Mayfair gallery that acquired them from jeweller Glenn Spiro in 2025. According to a 2015 research paper, the Ziwiye hoard was looted by shepherds after its discovery, and its pieces were sold on antique markets out of Iran in the 1960s. Now scattered across museums and private collections, the artefacts have become symbols of a painful history of cultural displacement.

Prof. Sussan Babaie, an Iranian-born art historian at the Courtauld Institute, expressed "outrage" that such culturally significant items were used for Hollywood promotion. "There is not enough cultural knowledge and cultural sensibility among those who dress celebrities," she said. The incident has sparked a broader debate about the ethics of celebrity fashion and the treatment of ancient objects.

Comparison: Celebrity Artefact Controversies

Key Takeaways

• The earrings are from the Ziwiye hoard, a looted ancient treasure trove.
• Archaeologists criticize the use of artefacts as disposable fashion accessories.
• The controversy highlights the ongoing issue of cultural heritage repatriation.
• Western institutions and celebrities face increased scrutiny over artifact ownership and display.

Expert Reactions

Beyond Prof. Babaie, several heritage organisations have weighed in. The Iranian Cultural Heritage, Handicrafts and Tourism Organization issued a statement expressing disappointment. Meanwhile, Barron London defended the loan, citing the earrings' provenance and legal acquisition. Yet many argue that ethical considerations should outweigh commercial interests.

This incident is not isolated. Museums worldwide hold contested antiquities, from the Elgin Marbles to the Benin Bronzes. The Zendaya backlash adds fuel to the fire, forcing the fashion and film industries to reconsider their role in cultural preservation.

FAQ

The Zendaya backlash is a stark reminder that fashion and heritage are deeply intertwined. As the Odyssey press tour continues, the conversation around ethics, ownership, and respect for ancient cultures is far from over.