Mahnaz Afshar's relationships and romantic storylines have had a significant impact on her career and public image. Her on-screen performances have consistently showcased her acting range and versatility, earning her a reputation as one of Iran's most talented actresses.

However, her off-screen relationships have been subject to scrutiny and criticism. The Iranian media has often criticized her for her perceived "liberal" lifestyle and relationships, which some view as contradictory to Iranian cultural and Islamic values.

Another notable performance was in the film "The Sequel" (2009), where Afshar played the role of Sara, a woman caught in a complicated love triangle. Her performance earned her a nomination for Best Actress at the 2009 Fajr Film Festival.