Memoirs of a Gay Shah: My Story of Family, Fame, and Becoming a King

by Reza Farahan

He didn't fit the mold—so he made a throne instead.

At just four years old, Reza Farahan left Iran for what was supposed to be a quick family trip to Los Angeles. But while he was soaking up the California sun, revolution erupted back home, and Reza's short stay turned into permanent exile.

Caught between cultures, identities, and expectations, Reza was an outsider in every sense of the word. He was a half-Muslim, half-Jewish, gay Persian kid just trying to survive 1980s America—a place that saw him as a threat, even when all he wanted was to belong. But with an unapologetic spirit and bold personality, Reza was never destined to simply fit in. He was meant to shine. 

Reza eventually became the larger-than-life, fan-favorite star of Bravo's Shahs of Sunset, where he served looks, shade, and cultural pride in equal measure. And now Reza is opening up about the journey that took him from closeted teen to reality TV royalty, from hiding his truth to owning every inch of his spotlight.

Heartfelt, hilarious, and deeply human, Memoirs of a Gay Shah is the story of how one outcast boy grew into a confident man by reclaiming every part of himself—his culture, his identity, his queerness—and decided to live not just authentically, but extravagantly.

Genres: Memoir, LGBT, Nonfiction, Queer, Biography Memoir

220 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 7, 2026

Reviews

[Sacha · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 stars

This is a well constructed and nicely paced memoir featuring an individual who is known for being hilarious and also layered and open. I was hoping for more than just a puff piece on the past show and the forthcoming one, and I'm very pleased with having received exactly that.

Readers who are hoping that this will just be a bunch of behind the scenes Bravo nonsense should know that both the title and the content are already telling you otherwise. Of course there is discussion of Farahan's time on _Shahs of Sunset_, and he does discuss a bit about cast relationships, issues with producers, and his feelings about becoming a Bravolebrity. These are, for obvious reasons, important parts of his story, but they are neither the only nor most important, so readers are fortunate that he shares so much more.

Farahan's family life, personal relationships, and intersectional identities are all featured here, and they are described in ways that are both informative and engaging. It's impossible not to hear the author's voice while reading by sight, and I can't wait for the audiobook to release for that exact purpose. This feels very authentic to Farahan versus a ghostwritten, polished version of his experience.

Is this the deepest or most moving memoir I've ever encountered? Has Farahan had the kind of experiences one finds in a memoir from Malala, Greta, an Obama, or the like? Of course not. But if what you're looking for is the what comes after the colon in this title - stories of family, fame, and becoming a king, you have come to the right book.

I enjoyed this, highly anticipate the audiobook, and will, moving forward, absolutely have a whole even more positive perspective of a fella who makes me laugh and also really moves me sometimes with the personal risks he takes.

*Special thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for this arc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.

[Angie · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a huge Bravo fan and someone who has always loved Reza, I was excited to read Memoirs of a Gay Shah, and it did not disappoint. Reza’s voice comes through so clearly: witty, honest, dramatic, and heartfelt, just like fans would expect. I really enjoyed getting a deeper look into his life beyond what we saw on TV, especially his personal stories, struggles, and the experiences that shaped him. The book is entertaining, and full of the humor and personality that make Reza so lovable. If you’re a Bravo fan, especially a Shahs of Sunset fan, this is definitely worth the read.

[H · Rating 2 out of 5]

I sooooo wanted to like this book. I loved Reza on JLL, but was not a fan of him on Shahs which I just binged in the last few months. I thought this book would give insight into his life a bit more and my pre-Shahs fondness for him would come back. But sadly the book was mostly just a regurgitation of the show. If you did not watch Shahs, this book might be for you. If you did watch the show, I would save your money.

It's interesting to listen to a man judge and make fun of other people for what they wear, where they live, and what they do all whilst he complains about others judging him. I find him mostly egotistical and spoiled. He pretends to do some self-reflecting which I think he superficiously believes. And the name calling is tiresome. He thinks he is funny in doing so, but it gets old fast, and some of it I find offensive.

I did love hearing about his father's entrepreneurial skills after losing everything to the war. The real heroes in the story are his mom and dad.

And finally, I understand Shahs of Sunset is not his entire life but I would have loved to hear about his current relationship with Asa and/or Mike. And why they speak or no longer speak.

Overall, a disappointment of a book.

[Shannon Moran · Rating 3 out of 5]

I believe anyone with the courage to tell their story deserves to have it read. I also really struggled with this memoir. While I loved and appreciated his insights on life in Iran, Persian culture and how he made a name for himself despite any odds he felt stacked against him, I struggled with his writing voice. I didn't enjoy that everyone was a "ho" or the way he wanted others not to judge him while coming off very judgemental. It felt like we got a glimpse of his persona for the media more than who he was.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Rie Sadler Foley · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a memoir that’s equal parts hilarious, heartfelt, and unapologetically real, Memoirs of a Gay Shah absolutely delivers. From the very first page, Reza Farahan pulls you into his world with a voice so vivid and authentic, you don’t just read the book—you hear it. Every quip, every story, every moment lands exactly as if he’s sitting across from you, martini in hand, telling it like it is.

What makes this memoir stand out isn’t just the humor (though it’s sharp, witty, and perfectly timed), but the depth beneath it. Reza balances laugh-out-loud moments with genuine vulnerability, giving readers insight into his life, identity, and personal journey in a way that feels both intimate and empowering. It’s rare to find a memoir that can make you cackle one minute and nod in recognition the next—but this one nails it.

There’s also something incredibly relatable about his perspective. Whether it’s navigating friendships, family dynamics, or just figuring life out as a Gen X-er with strong opinions and a bigger personality, Reza brings a refreshing honesty that resonates. And as a fellow Leo? That bold, charismatic energy shines through on every page.

Ultimately, this is more than just a celebrity memoir—it’s a smart, entertaining, and deeply human story told by someone who knows exactly who he is and isn’t afraid to say it. If you love a book with personality, humor, and heart, this one deserves a top spot on your list.

[Chris Quinn · Rating 4 out of 5]

S/O and TY to NetGalley and the publisher Sourcebooks for the eARC of this title.

As a fan of Reza Farahan from his show Shahs of Sunset and The Valley : Persian Style, I was very excited to receive this title. Told through the distinct voice of the author with a casual style; you can almost hear some of the soundbites from this deeply personal but still humorous memoir. I learned a lot about the context of Iranian immigration to the US through the authors personal undertaking of the tremulous task and the prejudices that Iranians faced then and still face today. His insights on the reality tv world were also interesting to read but I was hoping for more behind the scenes drama.

I’d recommend this to readers who like bravo, memoirs, and equal parts funny equals parts emotional.

4/5 stars

[Angela Stillson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I am a big fan of Reza from Bravo after reading this book. I did want more detail into his relationships with the other cast members and his life as a teen growing up in Beverly Hills. Plus, I feel like this was written to plug his new show.

[Sabrina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been a fan of Reza Farahan for several years now and enjoyed watching the Bravo TV show he was on called Shahs of Sunsets. I was excited to see that he had come out with a memoir and was looking forward to reading it. Reza was one of my favorites on the show as he comes across as a very funny, bold, and charasmatic person. I feel as though his personality really shines through in this memoir. His writing immediately drew me in as I began reading and it was hard for me to put this book down once I started it. Reza begins his memoir by discussing his difficult relationship with his home country of Iran, and the struggles he and his family faced once they had left Iran and after the revolution there had begun. He also goes into detail about growing up in Beverly Hills with his family and the challenges he faced when he realized that he was gay and that he would have to come out to his friends and family members. I loved his authenticity when discussing these parts of his life, and I felt as though he was very honest in the telling of his story. I learned a lot about Reza that I hadn't known before. I also learned a lot about the Shahs of Sunset show as Reza features some interesting tidbits about the cast and crew of the show. I personally would have liked some more of the book to be about Shahs of Sunset and his relationships with the different cast members. I am looking forward to watching the new show on Bravo that he will be featured in this year!

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah Calk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Memoirs of a Gay Shah by Reza Farrakhan 🎧

Anybody that watches Bravo knows Reza from Shahs of Sunset. I was instantly a fan of the show and Reza. This is my first time doing a memoir on audible and it was worthwhile. You can hear him getting emotional during certain scenes and his personality really comes through.

This book tackles several issues Reza has lived with and overcome in his young life. These issues are often misunderstood, misrepresented and polarizing in the current world we live in. This book tackles such topics as:

1. Iranian revolution and the regime change
2. Exiled in America to legal immigration and citizenship
3. Assimilating and building a new life in the Western hemisphere and America as a mixed Jewish Muslim Persian from the Middle East
4. Family struggles- Building the American Dream through Persian rugs, his complicated and nonexistent relationship with his paternal family, his Father’s numerous affairs, and strong and wonderful relationship with his Mother
5. Coming to terms with his sexuality just as the AIDS hysteria was at full height
6. Giving us a peek behind the curtain of reality TV and adjusting to the celebrity it comes with
7. Being a proud American in a politically polarizing climate that currently portrays patriotism with negative connotation

I highly suggest this book for anyone that is a Bravo fan. It gives some much desired insight into the workings of these shows.

I highly suggest this book for anyone that doubts America’s efforts to return Iran to a peaceful nation.

I highly suggest this book for anyone that looks down on America and what a beautiful thing the American dream is for so many. For some reason, socialism is the core of the progressive’s talking points; however, this book illustrates capitalism in practice and working.

I highly suggest this book for anyone that believes all immigration is bad. This book is a prime example of the good that can from legal immigration, citizenship and assimilation while embracing your own culture and heritage.

[Emma · Rating 1 out of 5]

I hate giving such a low rating to a memoir, because I know how personal such books are and that authors always leave a little bit of themselves in their memoirs but I really disliked Memoirs Of A Gay Shah

I haven't seen Shahs Of Sunset and didn't even know that show had existed so maybe if you're familiar with it and have enjoyed it, your reaction to the book will be different.

I was discovering Reza Farahan and really what he showed me of his personality was insufferable. He sounded like he thought he was superior to pretty much everyone else and needed to flash his wealth all the time. He also seemed fairly unaware of his tremendous privilege. Like really you didn't know being poor didn't just mean not being able to afford one more Rolex before you went to college?

Another thing I couldn't stand is how Reza Shah felt the need to let us know more than once that he's "never been THAT gay", oh cool, you're not like the others and should be more respected, I guess? Also, did you know he's a top? That seems very important for him not to be confused with one of the sissy (he doesn't use the word but the sentiment is clear) bottoms.

I would have liked to read more about his experience growing up Iranian-American but he was more focused on his family life, which is fine but he never really made me care enough to feel interested in his dad's infidelities or his grandmother's lack of love.

I also disliked the general tone and excessive use of the word "ho" all the time, about nearly everyone. At 52, sounding like a wannabe rebellious teen felt quite ridiculous IMO.

[Alice · Rating 3 out of 5]

As a fan of Shahs I was thinking this was gonna be a gossip sesh about all things bravo, but not so much, this book is about Reza and his life and story, I honestly didn't know much about the history of Iran and I feel like he explains it so well (and I now know how to say it correctly) - imagine going on a vacation and bam you live in a brand new world, he does a great job of expressing his feelings throughout the book, and I know Reza is polarizing, but this is definitely worth the read, even if you're not a bravo fan, its a great story of an immigrant and how his life changes once he moved to the US, his sexuality, and being from a mixed race family, definitely recommend- wish there were photos (love them in a memior, gives people faces when you are reading about them) and a little Shahs dirt would be fun -

****thank you netgalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review

[Julie Mrs Always Reading Something]

Memoirs of a Gay Shah
By Reza Farahan
Pub Date: 04/07/2026

THANK YOU NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the advanced digital copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

I don’t usually assign a star rating to memoirs because it feels wrong to judge someone’s personal story.
If, like on NetGalley, I need to assign stars, I usually give all 5.

I was interested in reading this memoir because I used to love watching Shahs of Sunset on Bravo. I enjoyed watching Reza flaunt his fabulous self around Beverly Hills, heal his hurts and find love with Adam. Let’s be honest - the drama was also top tier!

This memoir painted the picture of what like was like growing up for Reza, and filled in some gaps that were missing in his backstory from the show. I appreciate his candor and his willingness to share a peek behind the curtain into his life.

[Amanda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you #Netgalley for the advanced copy! I had been eager to an early copy of this because we keep hearing about it on Jeff Lewis Live! I really enjoyed reading this, especially about Reza's childhood. The book really focused on things we did not know from his times on Shahs of Sunset. We learn so much more, beginning with his vacation to Los Angeles which ended up turning into his permanent residence and never returning to his homeland. I was also intrigued with the story of his father and his process of supporting other fleeing families and using his expertise to help others, even though at times he may not have been the best family member to his own loved ones. Great read!

[Lisa Huppert · Rating 3 out of 5]

First I would like to thank NetGalley and Sourcebooks for the arc of this memoir in exchange for an honest review.

I have never watched the Bravo show that Reza was a part of, but I do know who he is and have seen him on other shows. So I was interested to learn more about him and his life. Unfortunately I found the writing of this memoir to be off putting. His name calling and overuse of “Ho” was annoying and at times offensive. I understand that growing up as an immigrant from Iran, as well as a gay person who is half Jewish and half Muslim would come with a fair amount of judgment and bullying. However, instead of developing sympathy for Reza, I found him to be quite judgmental of others coming across as a spoiled egotistical person.

I did enjoy reading about how his dad made a life for the family once here in America. I also thought the book did a fair job at showing a difference between Iranian people and the Iranian government. Rena’s realization that he is an American after his trip to see his home country was touching.

So while a good portion of the book I struggled to like the guy who it is about, there were parts that I found touching and informative.

I would give it 3 stars.

[Cecile · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have watched “Shahs of Sunset” sporadically, and Reza is my fave in the show. He’s outspoken, ambitious, and proud of his Persian heritage. His personality comes out loud and true in the memoir. He writes about how his childhood vacation became an exile, how he was terrified of coming out during the AIDS era, and feelings the blessings/curses of having a bi-religious background. I wished the memoir had photographs. If someone wants a full expose of reality TV, you won’t find it here. Reza explains some, but not all, of the peculiarities and frustrations of filming a reality TV show in the last chapters.

[Katherine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been following the Shah series for many years. At first I thought it was going to be lame, but then I really enjoyed watching the dynamics of the show. I was sad when it was canceled. I watch the reboot and I am so glad for Reza and his memoir.

Coming from an immigrant family background (albeit another country), I understood where Reza was coming from in certain parts of the book. I loved reading a deeper level and understanding of Reza’s story.

I definitely recommend this book to others.

***I received a free ARC of this book from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.*** 

[Chelsea · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this in exchange for an honest review.

This was…about what you’d expect from a memoir written by Reza 😂 His voice was unmistakable, so it doesn’t seem like it was ghostwritten. Some of the takes he had were a little yikes, but that’s Reza. I wish he’d included a photo section and a little more Shahs of Sunset gossip. If you are a Reza hater, this book won’t make you like him more. But if you love him (or love to hate him) this book will be enjoyable for you!!

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this! Devoured it in two days! This entire book felt like one continuously long text message between me and my bff… the writing was very easy and fun to follow. It was very interesting to get a deeper understanding of the issues happening in Iran, and learning about Reza from chapter 1. I loved hearing about his upbringing and what brought him to Shahs of Sunset! I wouldn’t say this book spilled any tea, but it was nice to get a behind the scenes look on it all. If you’re a Bravo fan or Shahs fan, this definitely is a must read!

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Was a great quick read. I enjoyed how the writer was able to connect to the reader when talking about his experiences. I loved how it seemed like I was taking a peek in his personal journal based on his style of writing. I did feel like the informality of the writing was a bit over the top, but Reza is an over the top personality to begin with so I’m sure a lot of readers would enjoy it.

[Manda Salls · Rating 3 out of 5]

Love Reza. His memoir is worth reading if you are a fan. Very much in his voice, but I was hoping for more insight into his relationships with various castmates. Even the cancellation of their first series (which I attribute to his blow-up with MJ) he doesn't get into at all, which was surprising. More pictures would have been great too!

[Lynda Galka · Rating 4 out of 5]

love love love

I didn’t like Reza. Then I binged Shahs and then by season 2 I was hooked. This book is genuine and from the heart. I only wished the original Shahs could come back.

[Megin Herron · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great memoir! Fast paced and well constructed. I enjoyed learning more about Reza, his culture and family history. I appreciated that rather of a bunch of name dropping and behind the scenes gossip from his shows, this was truly a memoir about him.

[Laura Simpson · Rating 2 out of 5]

I love Reza and was excited for this but didnt learn much new information outside of the show he’s in. Was hoping to hear more about his life instead of specific callbacks most of his fans already knew about.

[Lisa]

I should have listened to this instead of reading it. I am a chump and newer Reza fan. I know about his darkness on Shahs but have grown to like him on JLL and TVPS. Not my fav celeb memoir but pretty good for a Bravoleb. Enjoyed learning more about the Persian culture.

[Ahmed · Rating 1 out of 5]

This is essentially a book about a promiscuous gay man crippled by low self-esteem, who parades his fish-eyed privilege in everyone's faces, mistaking our disgust for jealousy. Money can't buy class, acceptance, or happiness, and definitely not a better reflection.

[Ania Bednarczyk · Rating 3 out of 5]

I went in wanting more juice on Shas but that was only a tiny portion of a book that was genuinely the life story of a gay Jewish Persian man, exiled from Iran and living in BH. It gave a new side to Reza- a more rounded showcase of his character.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved Shahs of Sunset from when it first was added to the Bravo lineup and I adored watching them again on the Valley recently. Reza tells a very honest and passionate story. I laughed and cried. I highly recommend it to any fan of Bravo.

[Cindy Guinn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Reza on Bravo and was eager to read his memoir. It did not disappoint. I was impressed by his backstory and learning more of his early life. I listened to the audiobook and it was perfect since Reza narrated it and have his signature sass and shadiness.

[JXR · Rating 3 out of 5]

It's fine, I think. some of the takes in it were a bit yikes and throughout I don't think it quite stuck the landing on a lot of the parts that it wanted to. 3 stars. tysm for the arc.

[Jamie Duvall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rena Joon!

What a fun and funny (in a way only Reza can be) soul bearing, heartfelt, memoir. I loved you then, I love you now!
Wonderfully done!