Memoirs of a Gay Shah

My Story of Family, Fame, and Becoming a King

De: Reza Farahan

Narrado por: 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.

Cover design by Charlotte Daniels

©2026 Reza Farahan (P)2025 Audible, Inc.

Loved it!

I am so glad to know more of Reza and his life. You never fully know someone’s life’s story and I thank him for sharing his. So happy he is back on The Valley: Persian Style. Love it!!!!

Great Book! If you loved the Shahs of Sunset you will love this book.

Reza Farahan’s memoir is a striking, deeply personal work that offers readers an intimate glimpse into Persian culture, identity, and resilience. With honesty and sharp wit, he opens a window into a world that is often misunderstood, illuminating the richness of Persian traditions, family dynamics, and the complexities of navigating life between cultures. What makes this memoir especially compelling is how it reframes the narrative around reality television. Where that spotlight so often exposes and fractures, Reza reveals how the experience ultimately became a catalyst for self-discovery and healing. Rather than breaking him, it forced him to confront his truths, embrace his identity, and emerge more whole than ever. This book is not just a reflection on fame—it’s a powerful story of growth, cultural pride, and the unexpected ways we find ourselves.

I loved hearing Reza's background and POV as a refugee from Iran.

Listened every chance I got, such an interesting read. I loved Reza from Shahs but most recently Jeff Lewis Live, getting to know his upbringing was definitely an eye opener to how he operates today. SO glad he personally narrated the book. Recommend highly!

Loved!!!

I really loved this book! Its honesty and humor made it such an engaging and meaningful read. As someone who is Persian but wasn’t raised in the culture, I appreciated the window it gave into traditions, family dynamics and identity. It felt enlightening and I walked away with a deeper understanding and appreciation. Also I’m a huge Shahs fan and an even bigger Reza fan. A great listen.. I laughed out loud so many times and finished the book in two days. Thank you Reza for sharing your experience and heart with us.

All the captivating information about Persian culture was fascinating.

Excellent book!!! Must read/listen!! It takes a lot for me to actually listen to audios, favorite thing about it, listening to it straight out of Reza!!!