Zendaya under fire for wearing 3,000-year-old Iranian earrings during ‘Odyssey’ promotion

Zendaya has faced widespread backlash after her appearance at the London promotion of the film “Odyssey,” where she wore a pair of earrings crafted from ancient Iranian artifacts, with a history of around 2,700 to 3,000 years.

Archaeologists and art historians have criticized the actress’ choice, arguing that objects of great historical and cultural value should not be used as fashion accessories or as part of film promotional campaigns. According to experts, the earrings were made from materials connected to ancient artifacts from the Ziwiye treasure in Iran, which are alleged to have been illegally removed from the country of origin.

Art history professor Sussan Babaie expressed surprise at the decision to use them, stressing that such objects carry historical and spiritual significance and should not be treated simply as luxury items. Meanwhile, the London-based Barron Gallery, which owns the earrings, defended the choice by stating that the artifacts are legally managed and that the loan was not for commercial purposes.

According to the gallery, the aim was to showcase the craftsmanship of ancient Persian artisans and to raise awareness of Iran’s cultural heritage.

So far, Zendaya and her styling team have not issued any public response to the criticism.