Swell Ariel Or
Luna Armoza
Overview
The loves, heartbreak, jealousy and pain of the three Armoza sisters – Luna, Rachelika, and Becky - their parents, grandparents and children, set during the early-mid 20th century in Jerusalem.
Seasons
- Status
- Returning Series
- Seasons
- 2 seasons
- Episodes
- 70 episodes
- First aired
- Jun 7, 2021
Cast
Reviews
5 min readThe Unseen Threads of Jerusalem
I’ve spent the last few weeks tangled in the lives of the Armoza sisters—Luna, Rachelika, and Becky—and their sprawling, fractious family, set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Jerusalem. The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem is the kind of drama that doesn’t just unfold on screen; it seeps into your bones, lingering like the scent of spices in a market stall long after you’ve left. It’s a story about love, yes, but also about the quiet, corrosive power of resentment, the way family can be both a sanctuary and a cage, and how the past clings to us like dust on a well-worn rug.
The series is based on a novel by Sarit Yishai-Levi, though I haven’t read it, so I can’t speak to how faithfully it adapts the source material. What I can say is that the show feels like it was written by someone who understands the weight of history—not just the grand, sweeping kind, but the small, personal histories that shape us. The Armoza family is Sephardic, their roots stretching back generations in Jerusalem, and the series takes care to ground their story in the cultural and political upheavals of the time.
The early 1900s were a period of immense change for the city, and the Armozas are caught in the currents of British rule, Zionist movements, and the slow unraveling of Ottoman influence. But the show isn’t a history lesson. It’s a family saga, and its heart lies in the domestic—kitchens, courtyards, whispered arguments behind closed doors.
The title, The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem, refers to Luna, the eldest sister, whose striking looks and sharp tongue make her both the family’s pride and its greatest source of tension. Luna is played by Swell Ariel Or, and if the series has a gravitational center, it’s her. Or’s performance is a masterclass in restraint.
Luna is a woman who knows her power but is also painfully aware of its limits. She’s trapped in a loveless marriage, her beauty both a weapon and a curse, and Or captures this duality with a quiet, simmering intensity. There’s a scene early on where Luna stands in front of a mirror, adjusting her dress before a family gathering.
Audience Opinions
Audience 7.8/10
"A rich, emotionally charged family saga with standout performances, though its pacing and melodrama may test some viewers' patience."
The series is praised for its deep dive into Sephardic Jewish family dynamics and the compelling portrayal of generational conflicts, particularly through Swell Ariel Or’s performance. latestnetflix.com's read is that however, its slow pacing and occasional over-the-top drama leave some feeling it drags in places, despite its cultural authenticity and strong character development.
What viewers praise
- Strong lead performance Swell Ariel Or’s portrayal of the central character is widely celebrated for its emotional depth and authenticity.
- Cultural authenticity The series is lauded for its rich depiction of Sephardic Jewish traditions and Jerusalem’s historical backdrop.
- Emotional depth Viewers appreciate the nuanced exploration of family bonds, love, and betrayal across generations.
- Engaging family drama The multi-generational storytelling resonates with audiences who enjoy complex, character-driven narratives.
- Visually appealing The production design and cinematography are frequently highlighted as immersive and well-crafted.
Common complaints
- Slow pacing Some viewers find the series overly drawn-out, with long stretches that feel repetitive or uneventful.
- Melodramatic moments The emotional intensity occasionally veers into over-the-top territory, which can feel jarring or unrealistic.
- Underdeveloped side characters While the leads shine, supporting characters often lack depth or meaningful arcs.
- Predictable plot points Some storylines follow familiar tropes, reducing the element of surprise for seasoned drama viewers.
Recommended for
Family drama enthusiasts Fans of historical sagas Viewers who love strong female leads Cultural storytelling admirers Slow-burn character studies
Buzz & Rumors
Public reportsSwell Ariel Or Shines in The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem—But What’s Next for the Star?
The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem (2021) has captivated audiences with its sweeping drama and rich portrayal of a Sephardic Jewish family in 1920s Jerusalem. At the heart of the series is Swell Ariel Or, whose performance as Gabriella has drawn praise—and curiosity about her real-life connection to the role. latestnetflix.com's take is that while the show’s future remains uncertain, Or’s rising profile and off-screen advocacy have kept her in the spotlight.
From Screen to Advocacy: Or’s Dual Role
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uW7JoMysGq8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opNGIQHCj-A
Swell Ariel Or isn’t just the face of The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem; she’s also become a vocal advocate for Israel, both on and off screen. In recent interviews, Or has spoken about using her platform to support her homeland, particularly during times of conflict. Clips from sources like and show her discussing the intersection of art and activism, though specifics about her initiatives remain scarce. Her dual role as an actress and public figure adds a layer of intrigue to her portrayal of Gabriella, a character navigating personal and political turmoil.
Season 3: Renewed or Cancelled?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hy7Gt4pJ73A
Fans are eager for updates on The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem’s third season, but the show’s status is murky. Rumors swirl about a potential renewal, with outlets like Premiere Next speculating on Netflix’s plans. However, no official confirmation has been released. The series, based on Sarit Yishai-Levi’s bestselling novel 
, has a built-in audience, but whether it will return remains unconfirmed. For now, viewers are left waiting—and rewatching Or’s standout performance.
Behind the Scenes: A Family Saga Comes to Life
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdNQqNIP36E
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECmgEeUvLNU
The show’s production has offered glimpses into its making, with behind-the-scenes footage highlighting the cast’s chemistry. Michael Aloni, known for Shtisel, also stars in the series , adding star power to the ensemble. Yet details about the creative process—such as the director’s vision or challenges in adapting the novel—are thin. The series’ success hinges on its emotional depth, but without more insider details, fans are left to speculate about what’s next.
The Bottom Line
The Beauty Queen of Jerusalem has carved out a niche with its historical drama and compelling performances, particularly Or’s. But with Season 3’s fate unclear and limited behind-the-scenes insight, the show’s future is anyone’s guess. For now, Or’s advocacy and the series’ loyal fanbase keep the conversation alive.
Entertainment rumors and trivia aggregated from public reporting. Treat speculation as unverified unless a cited source confirms it.