By 2018, the relationship between Tataloo and Iranian authorities had deteriorated again. Facing repeated arrests and bans, he relocated to Turkey. In exile, he reinvented himself as an international act, holding massive concerts in Istanbul and continuing to release music online. Yet exile brought its own troubles. Without Iranian state approval, he had no path to perform in his home country. Without stable residency abroad, he was at constant risk of deportation.
His massive online following kept him in the spotlight, but his lifestyle marked by controversy and impulsive statements often alienated potential allies. On Instagram, where he amassed millions of followers, Tataloo often posted unfiltered thoughts. Some were humorous or eccentric, but others sparked outrage. At times he crossed lines including interactions with underage fans that led to account bans and widespread criticism.
