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Q&A: Asa Soltan Rahmati Talks 'Shahs of Sunset'

Star of Bravo's new show discusses culture and coming to America


By MSN TV

Bravo's new reality show "Shahs of Sunset," set to debut on Sunday, March 11, at 10 p.m. ET/PT, gives us a glimpse into the day-to-day lives of Persian socialites as they navigate their careers, dating and obligations to their families. MSN TV was able to catch up with one of the stars, Asa Soltan Rahmati, who shared her passion for art, gave us the scoop on the other cast members and told us how her life is summed up in three chapters.

Was the decision to be on a reality show a difficult one to make?

Asa Soltan Rahmati: Extremely. I really had to sit with it for a bit just to figure out if I wanted my life out there on TV, and I decided it would be a wonderful thing for people to see how I live. Maybe some people out there will be able to relate to some of the things I go through in my life, so, with that, I decided to do the show.

Bing: More about Asa Soltan Rahmati | More on 'Shahs of Sunset'

Can you tell us a little about your childhood journey from Iran to Germany? Did you go through quite a bit of culture shock?

I always sum up my life in three big chapters. The first seven years, we were in Iran. In the beginning, things were really good. My parents had a lot of wealth. Then the war started with a big revolution. We escaped and moved to Europe and were admitted as political refugees in Germany. We had quite a bit of hardship, but it was an incredible time for me as a child and as a teenager. I feel that time really made me into the person I am today. Then, at 15, we moved to Beverly Hills from Europe, so every time with these big moves it was a culture shock but it wasn't at the same time, because I realized it is a part of my journey and I was able to adapt really well each time. I feel like my life journey is as much of a musical journey as it was a socio-political one.

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Where do you find inspiration as an artist?

When I was a child and the revolution happened in Iran in the late '70s, Western music was illegal for a while. My parents used to have this crazy collection of funk and disco music. I grew up with these amazing rich experiences through my parents, my culture, and so by the time I was 15, I lived in three different continents, spoke four different languages. Language and culture is where I find inspiration. Also, I travel a lot. Once I started traveling a lot, my perspectives about life changed.

What's the funniest thing we have to look forward to on the show?

The funniest thing -- without giving anything away -- will be the Las Vegas episode. That episode is going to be hilarious. I have a term I made up, called "Persianity," and that basically describes into one how we roll as Persians. You'll see some hilarious moments unfold in the Las Vegas episode.

Did you know the other cast members prior to the show, or did you meet on the show?

This is why this experience has been such an amazing one. Most of us grew up in the same community. I remember Mike from high school; I've known Sammy since I was a teenager, and so we all grew up seeing each other and now we're suddenly on the TV show together. We have a lot in common, but we're all totally different.

What's the energy like when all six of you are together?

It's super-fun, high-energy fun. There's some drama; we're Persians! Extreme high energy, super-dynamic and just complete fun!

What aspects of the Persian culture do you most want viewers to learn about through the show?

I feel like growing up in the West there have been so many negative stereotypes. Our essence has never been captured. In the end, even though we are just six people and don't represent all Persians or the culture ... people will see how our relationships are with our families. They will get a close look into the kindness, hospitality and loyalty, certain things that truly run through our blood. It's been this way for thousands of years: Our language has been the same; our cuisine has been the same for thousands of years. So I hope people will see what we are like from on a human level.

Do you have any goals you'd like to accomplish through "Shahs of Sunset"?

In some ways I'm not so disciplined with my art. I'm personally really excited to really get my music going and tackling the challenges of being an artist. I am releasing my big hit when the show airs. I now have to put myself out there in the pop music world.

What's your biggest life lesson and best advice you'd like to give other aspiring artists?

The biggest life lesson I've learned throughout my incredibly blessed life is be yourself. Even if you think right now it's not paying off, stay true to yourself and listen to your heart. It's not easy and you learn to be a warrior in life, but I think in the end it really pays off.

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"Shahs of Sunset" premieres Sunday, March 11, at 10 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo.

 

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