My Best Turkish Actors
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Haluk Bilginer is a Turkish actor. In addition to his acting career in Turkey, he has also worked in the United Kingdom and remains known for his role as Mehmet Osman in the television soap opera EastEnders (1985) during the 1980s. He has also starred in Hollywood movies as a minor actor. He played a villainous guerrilla leader in the 1987 comedy film Ishtar (1987) (one of the most notorious flops in movie history) and a Turkish Mafioso in the 2001 dark comedy film Buffalo Soldiers (2001). He played the character of Emre Celenk in the episode of Persephone in MI-5 (2002) 2004.
Bilginer was born in Izmir, Turkey. He graduated from Ankara State Conservatory in 1977 before going to England where he graduated from London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. He landed his first role at EastEnders (1985). Bilginer makes his first appearance in EastEnders (1985) as Mehmet Osman on-screen in June 1985, four months after the show originally aired. His arrival coincides with a cot death story line of Sue and Ali's baby, Hassan. Mehmet appears as a recurring character from 1985-1987, setting up a cab firm named Ozcabs from inside Ali's cafe; however, he becomes a regular in 1988, when both he and his wife Guizin (Ishia Bennison) are made partners in Ali's cafe, which is renamed Café Osman. Mehmet is portrayed as a charmer, a rogue and a womanizer. Author of The EastEnders (1985) Handbook, Hilary Kingsley, has said of him, "he tries it on with every woman he meets and sometimes succeeds through a combination of good looks and sheer audacity." A serial gambler, Mehmet was shown to steer Ali into various money-losing ploys, and had a combustible marriage to Guizin, who put up with his philandering, as in the Turkish community, that's "what a wife was expected to do".
Described as "the Terrible Turk", Haluk Bilginer was one of the more popular male cast members on EastEnders (1985) during the 1980s, and he reportedly received sackfuls of fan mail, "despite playing a villain and a womanizing snake". Hilary Kingsley has said that what made the character so popular was Bilginer's Omar Sharif-style good looks and charm. Following the departure of Holland and Smith, Mehmet was eventually written out of the serial in May 1989, in a story line that signified the disbandment of the Osman family. On-screen, Mehmet returns to his native Cyprus after a fight with Guizin regarding her suspicions about Mehmet's fabricated affair with Sue. The Osman family were among many characters to leave the serial that year. Writer Colin Brake has commented, "the pace of comings and going was fast and furious during 1989, as the program me tried to find a new direction." Bilginer went into musical theatre after leaving EastEnders (1985). During the course of the show, he came to Turkey to star in the 1987 TV series Gecenin Öteki Yüzü (1987) (The Other Side of the Night), where he met his eventual first wife Zuhal Olcay, famous Turkish actress and singer. After dividing his time in London and Istanbul for six years, he left the show to stay in Turkey permanently and married Zuhal Olcay in 1992. He guest starred in an episode of The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles (1992) as Ismet Inönü, and went on to star in the Yavuz Özkan film "Iki Kadin (1992)" (Two Women). He then starred in various movies including the controversial Istanbul Kanatlarimin Altinda (1996) (Istanbul Under My Wings) and the famous Sawdust Tales (1997) (Master, Kill Me). After critical acclaim for these roles, he earned his first award as a supporting actor in Innocence (1997) (Innocence). After deciding he wants to pursue career on stage, he founded "Tiyatro Stüdyosu" (Theatre Studio) with his ex-wife Zuhal Olcay and Ahmet Levendoglu in 1990. After starring in various plays for six years, he had to return to screen in 1996 because of a fire that has destroyed the theater. He and his wife starred in television and movies to raise money to found another theater.
During this era, he starred in Eyvah Kizim Büyüdü (2000) (Oh My, My Daughter Has Grown), starting his second era in television. After years of work, he and his wife managed to start a second theater, called "Oyun Atölyesi" (Play Workshop). His most famous role however came after he started his second theater. He landed a role in Tatli Hayat (2001), a remake of The Jeffersons (1975). He played the role of Ihsan Yildirim, an angry and foul-mouthed, yet lovable dry cleaner. He was accompanied by legendary actress Türkan Soray, who played his wife, Asuman Dabak playing the witty cleaner, Neco playing the Greek neighbor (The enmity between Greeks and Turks were put instead of the Black-White one in the original) and Çolpan Ilhan playing Neco's wife. He and the show's breakthrough character Irfan (played by Celal Kadri Kinoglu) are regarded as the best characters in Turkish TV history. He divorced Zuhal Olcay in 2004 and began a relationship with Askin Nur Yengi, a famous Turkish singer. They married in 2006 and had a girl. After Tatli Hayat (2001), he starred in Neredesin Firuze (2004) (Where Are You Firuze?), Hirsiz Var! (2005) (Thief!) and Hacivat Karagöz Neden Öldürüldü? (2006) (Why Were Hacivat&Karagöz Murdered?). His most recent role in Polis (2007) (Police) however, is his most critically acclaimed role after Tatli Hayat (2001). His portrayal of the troubled police legend Musa Rami has gained critical acclaim from both critics and viewers, who thought the movie was too experimental. Bilginer, however, has said that he will work in all of Onur Ünlü's (screenwriter and director of Polis (2007)) movies, even as an extra if required. Bilginer played the role of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in an Is Bank commercial, which first aired on 10 November 2007 during the 69th commemorations of Atatürk's death. In 2009 , He play in famous Turkish series Ezel (2009) during the second season. He became famous with this role around many countries . Bilginer co-starred in the 2009 American thriller The International (2009) as Ahmet Sunay, a Turkish high-tech missile guidance system dealer. He was accompanied by Clive Owen and Naomi Watts in this movie. Bilginer plays Aydin, an imposing Grey-haired former actor, in Winter Sleep (2014), which won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2014.- Sevket Altug was born on 13 March 1943 in Balikesir, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Süper Baba (1993), Saban, Son of Saban (1977) and The Chaos Class Is Waking Up (1976).
- Actor
- Soundtrack
Ilker Aksum is a Turkish film and television actor, born on 23 May, 1971 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is well known for his role in the film "Yabanci Damat" (2004), "Our Grand Despair" (2011), "Kucuk Kiyamet" (2006) and "Vavien" (2009).
Ilker Aksum did his schooling at Etimesgut Seker Elementary School. Then he studied at Mehmetcik High School. He completed his graduation from the Theater Department at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University in 1989. He also studied at the Ankara State Conservatory.
Ilker Aksum started his acting career in the Antalya State Theater in 1994. His first professional role was in the "Hamlet" game as Ophelia. He left in Istanbul in 1996 since the staff was not opened. After a short period, he left his military service in Kars Sarikamis. He worked at the Bakirkoy Municipal Theater for a short time and worked at the Istanbul City Theater for a year.
Ilker met Taylan Biraderler, when he played a part in the television series "Secret File" with his friend Devin Ozgur Cinar. Later, he appeared in the role of the uncle of the "Tsar" series, which was played by the most famous chimpanzee. He also presented the contest show "One for Two".
Aksum appeared in many films. He made his film debut with the film "Our Grand Despair" in 2011. He was the presenters of the 49th International Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival held on 07 October, 2012, which was organized by Iclal Aydin and Ilker Aksum.
Ilker Aksum won the Best Supporting Actor Award at the 28th Siyad Turk Sinemasi Awards, for the first feature film "Little Doomsday", which was directed by Durul and Yagmur Taylan brothers in 2006. In 2006, he achieved the Best Supporting Actor award in the 28th SIYAD Turkish Cinema Awards. He won the Best Supporting Actor award in the Ismail Cem Television Awards in 2010. In 2013, he won the Best Actor of the Year in the 18th Sadri Familiar Theater and Cinema Acting Awards for his role in the film "Happy Family Book".
Recently, Ilker Aksum has continued to work in films and television series.
Ilker Aksum's father's name is Mehmet Bulent Aksum, who is an officer pilot and his mother's name is Nurten Aksum. He has twin brothers, named Ilkay Aksum and Alpay Aksum. He is married to Belgin Erdogan in 2008 and they got divorced in 2012.- Fatih Al was born 12 September 1976 in Ankara. He graduated from Ankara University's School of Language and History - Geography with a degree in theatre studies. Later, Al worked in city theater's and then acted in movies and television series. He made his television debut in 2003 with a role in the series Sihirli Annem. He subsequently appeared in the series Rüzgarli Bahçe in 2005. In 2007, he was casr in the movie Hazan Mevsimi - Bir Panayir Hikâyesi as Cemal. In 2010, Al returned to stage with a role in the play Korkuyu Beklerken. In the following year he starred in the movie Bizim Büyük Caresizligimiz and went on stage again with the play Giderayak. In the same year, he began portraying Matrakci Nasuh in the historical drama series Muhtesem Yüzyil, after which he rose to prominence. In 2013, he starred in the movie Evdeki Yabancilar as Yasar. In 2014, he appeared in the movie Daire as Feramus and starred in FOX's TV series Not Defteri as Mahir Soysal. He is also known for his role in the Netflix original series Atiye.
- Actor
- Soundtrack
Taner Birsel, born in 1959 in Akhisar in the province of Manisa, Turkey, first studied Journalism and Public Relations between 1976-1980. Then he went on to study Performing Arts at the Conservatory of Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, Istanbul, from 1981 to 1985. He has been an actor at the Istanbul State Theatre and starred in more than 30 plays since 1985. Some of the plays he starred in: King Lear, Cyrano de Bergerac, Hamlet, Ay Isiginda Samata, The Death of Danton. Apart from plays, he is well-known for his career in the motion pictures as well. Some of his awards are as follows: Award for the Best Male Actor at the 24th SIYAD (Turkish Film Critics Association) Awards; Award for the Best Male Actor at the 21st SIYAD Awards for his role in "The Confession", (2002), which was screened at the "Un Certain Regard" section of the 2002 Cannes Film Festival; Award for the Best Male Actor for his role in "A Run for Money" (1999) at the 21st Istanbul Film Festival.- Actor
- Casting Department
- Soundtrack
Mehmet Ali Nuroglu was born on 7 September 1979 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Sen Anlat Karadeniz (2018), Winter Sleep (2014) and Guvercin (2019).- Muhammet Uzuner was born on 30 June 1965 in Samsun, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Once Upon a Time in Anatolia (2011), Halef (2018) and Tas (2017).
- He is originally from Kemerhisar, Nigde. He graduated from Mimar Sinan University State Conservatory Theatre Department in 1985 and started working in State Theatres.
He worked as an actor and director in Bursa, Ankara and Istanbul State Theatres. In addition to his managerial duties at the State Theatres, he also worked as a manager at the State Theatres Sports Club and the State Opera and Ballet Employees Foundation TOBAV. He directed plays at the State Theatres in Bursa, Adana, Diyarbakir, Trabzon, Ankara and Istanbul. He also directed plays in state theaters in Bursa, Adana, Diyarbakir, Trabzon, Ankara and Istanbul. He also worked as a director in Izmit City Theatre, Bakirkoy Municipality Theatres, Eskisehir Theatre Anadolu, Yeditepe Players, Abdullah Sahin/Nokta Theatre, Theatre Ti, Ankara Finance Theatre, Theatre Adam and Macedonia Skopje Peoples Theatre and Bulgaria Ruscuk State Theatre. He also worked as an actor in many plays in private and paid theaters. He wrote two plays, Hüzün Mahallesi Otobüsü and Turtle's Lullaby. The first of these was published and staged at the State Theatres. He worked as an instructor at Uludag University Faculty of Education, Eskisehir Anadolu University State Conservatory Theatre Department, Mimar Sinan University Performing and Visual Arts Department and State Conservatory Theatre Department. He is currently working as an instructor at Halic University and Yeditepe University. He also works in cinema, television and dubbing. He is the President of TOBAV Istanbul Branch. He has starred in many series and films. He became widely known with the character of Iskender Büyük in Kurtlar Vadisi Pusu and the film Kurtlar Vadisi Gladio. He also starred in the series "Subat", which was broadcast on TRT 1 between 2012-2013. Later, he played the character of Bahri Umman in the series Poyraz Karayel, which was broadcast on Kanal D between 2015-2017. - Actor
- Composer
- Director
In 1998 he was graduated from Istanbul University State Conservatory Theater Department. Between 1998 - 2001 he acted in the plays for Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality City Theaters such as Peace of Aristophanes, Romeo and Juliet of William Shakespeare, Woytzeck of Georg Büchner and Herkes Ayni Bahçede (Basar Sabuncu), Evliya Çelebi (E. Keskin).
Between 2006 - 2009 with Oyun Atolyesi Theater Company he played Petrucio in The Taming of the Shrew (W. Shakespeare) and won the best male actor award in 2007 Sadri Alisik Theather Awars. Later in the play Testosteron (Andrzej Saramonowicz) with his character Kornel he won 2009 Ismail Dunbullu Award.
He is an actor and composer, known for Bir Zamanlar Anadolu'da (2011), Sir cocuklari (2002) and Dilber'in sekiz günü (2008).- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Nadir Saribacak was born on September 14, 1977 in Ankara, Turkey. He studied Turkish Literature at the University of Canakkale and worked as a teacher in Istanbul in order to be in a big city to develop his acting career. It was there that he joined the Semaver Kumpanya theater company. Saribacak continued his training at Bahcesehir University, where he received his Masters in Acting. His career took-off after he starred in the film Uzak Ihtimal (2009), for which he received many Best Actor awards in festivals including the International Film Festival TOFIFEST and the Istanbul International Film Festival. He appeared in the film Winter Sleep which won the Palme d'Or award at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival. For his role in the Sundance World Cinema nominated film Ivy (2015), he received the Best Actor award at the Antalya Golden Orange film festival, as well as many others.
Nadir moved to the New York City in 2017 and continuing his acting career in theater and films.- Çetin Tekindor is considered to be one of Turkey's best actors and most respected artists today. He was born in Sivas, Turkey in 1945. He graduated from Ankara State Conservatory in 1970, and his stage career started with the play "Murat IV". He is one of the most impressive performers in Turkish film and television thanks to his charismatic acting and his distinctive voice. In the successful TV drama "Karadayi" (2012-2015) he captured the hearts of the viewers with his inimitable readings of famous poems. During his long career he gave classes about stage and diction at the State Conservatory of Haceteppe University and the Theater Department of Bilkent University. Younger actors often refer to him as "Cetin hoca" (teacher).
Tekindor became famous after he starred in the TV drama "Küçük Aga", directed by Yücel Çakmak in 1983. In 1978 he was awarded "best actor" for his work in the play "Genç Werther'in Acilari" by the Ankara Art Association. His first film work was "Kaçamak" (The Love Affair) (1987), in which he acted with Basar Sabuncu and Müjde Ar. Over the years took roles and starred in many TV dramas such as "Dönemeç" (The Turn) (1988), "Önce Canan" (1988), "Son Türbedar" (1996), "Kerem" (1999), "Yilan Hikayesi" (1999), "Tutku Çemberi" (2000), "Üzgünüm Leyla" (2002), "Çaylak" (2003), "Bir Istanbul Masali" (An Istanbul Tale) (2003), "Seytan Ayrintida Gizlidir" (Satan Is Hidden In Details) (2004), "Ödünç Hayat" (Borrowed Life) (2005), "Kabuslar Evi-Hayal-i Cihan" (House Of Nightmares: The dream of Cihan) (2006), "Asi" (2007), "Bir Çocuk Sevdim" (I Loved a Girl) (2011), "Karadayi" (2012), "Içerde" (Inside) (2016) and in films like "Yavrularim" (My Babies) (1984), "Kaçamak" (The Love Affair) (1987), "Karsilasma" (Encounter) (2002), "Babam ve Oglum" (My Father and My Son) (2005), "Ilk Ask" (First Love) (2006), "Ulak" (The Messenger) (2007), "Av Mevsimi" (Hunting Season) (2010), "Dedemin Insanlari" (My Grandfather's People) (2011), "Babam" (My Father) (2017). In 1987 Tekindor received an award for "best actor" from the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Ankara Art Association. He was also awarded "best actor" by the Ankara Art Association in 1999. He stopped giving any kind of interviews in the 80's because he found himself in an awkward situation after a journalist wrote things he had never said, and he hasn't given any interview ever since. During the 90's he almost stayed away from any acting in film and television. He stayed in Ankara and kept on his stage work, teaching and voice overs. As well as a stage, TV and film actor, he is also very famous for his iconic voice and his voice dubbing work, which by that time was more than his work in front of the camera. This changed when a journalist wrote in an article: "What ever film or TV series we watch there is always the voice of Cetin Tekindor. I think he earned him self enough money to go on vacation and leave us alone for a bit". Tekindor considers this as the greatest gift that was ever given to him, because it made him realize that it was about time for a turn in his career. This game changing turn brought several awards and some of the greatest performances in Turkish film and television. In 2003, for his work as Mahmut in the film "Karsilasma"(Encounter) he received the "best actor" award in the Ankara Film Festival and the "best supporting actor" in the Sadri Alisik Awards. In 2005, Tekindor starred in Çagan Irmak's film "Babam ve Oglum" (My Father and My Son) and received the "best actor" award in both the 13th ÇASOD Awards and the 27th SIYAD Turkish Film Awards. His monologue in the middle of the street near the end of the movie, which was shot in only one take, is considered to be one of the most powerful, heartbreaking and unforgettable scenes/performances in Turkish film history. In 2008 working again with director Çagan Irmak in the film "Ulak" (The Messenger) brought him the "best male film actor" award in the 2008 Ismail Dümbüllü Awards. In 2009, he was awarded "best actor" by TÜRSAK. Despite his successful career and recognition he always keeps a low profile with no celebrity behavior. He stays away from the spot lights and avoids any self promoting action, focusing only on his work. - Erdal Besikcioglu was born on January 5, 1970 in Ankara. He is the nephew of Genclerbirligi Sports Club President Ilhan Cavcav. His father was a manager at Vakiflar Bankasi. Due to his father's appointments, he started primary school in Ankara, then continued in Kayseri and Izmir. He completed high school at Izmir Private Turkish College and continued at Izmir Narlidere Mehmet Seyfi Eraltay High School. He finished high school in Ankara.
He entered Hacettepe University State Conservatory in 1989. During his conservatory education, he participated in workshops on creative drama with "William Guskill". He graduated in 1993 and started working at the State Theaters in the same year. During the 95-96 season, he served as the deputy director of the Diyarbakir State Theater. He continued his duty at the Ankara State Theatre.
He portrayed Governor Recep Yazicioglu between 2006 and 2008 in a series of films based on the novel of the same name written by writer Ayse Kulin and about the Baspinar Bridge, which Governor Recep Yazicioglu made great efforts to build during his Erzincan Governorship.
In 2014, Erdal Besikcioglu, Ibrahim Celikkol, Selen Soyder, Nehir Erdogan, Ismail Demirci and Yurdaer Okur played the leading roles in the TV series "Code Name Reaction / Kod Adi Reaksiyon".
He still continues his duty at Ankara State Theatre.
Erdal Besikcioglu has been married to his classmate from the conservatory, actress Elvin Besikcioglu, since 1991. He has a daughter named Derin and a son named Ömer. - Actor
- Director
- Writer
Mehmet Aslantug was born on 25 September 1961 in Samsun, Turkey. He is an actor and director, known for Sicak Saatler (1998), Yalanci (1994) and Askin Ikinci Yarisi (2010). He has been married to Arzum Onan since 1 August 1996. They have one child.- Mahir Günsiray was born on 10 August 1960 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Kaybolan Yillar (2006), Oglum oglum (1965) and Shahmaran (2023).
- Actor
- Producer
Caner Cindoruk was born on 17 April 1980 in Adana, Turkey. He is an actor and producer, known for Ember (2016), Içerdekiler (2018) and Hanimin Çiftligi (2009).- Münir Can Cindoruk was born on 30 May 1990 in Adana, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Hot Skull (2022), Brother's Keeper (2021) and About Dry Grasses (2023).
- Actor
- Soundtrack
Necip Memili was born on 27 May 1980 in Adana, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Karakomik Filmler: Kaçamak (2019), The Pit (2016) and Kaçma Birader (2016).- Actor
- Soundtrack
Erkan Petekkaya (born 11 December 1970) is a Turkish actor. He has starred in several television drama series including Beyaz Gelincik (White Poppies) (2005-07), Sessiz Firtina (Silent Storm) (2007-08) Öyle Bir Geçer Zaman Ki ("As Time Goes By") (2010-12), Dila Hanim (2012-14) and Paramparça (Broken Pieces) (2014-17).
In 2017 with the help of Fox TV, Petekkaya signed a contract with "Karga Seven Pictures", a production company affiliated with Red Arrow. He will remain in Los Angeles in order to learn the culture of Hollywood and will star in a TV series, with the filming set to begin in Los Angeles and continue in Turkey. The international contract signed by Petekkaya was the first of its kind in Turkey and he's going to receive 10 million for it.- Talat Bulut was born on 23 March 1956 in Sarikamis, Kars, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Melekler Evi (2000), Abuzer Kadayif (2000) and Herseye Ragmen (1988).
- Rutkay Aziz was born on 16 May 1947 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Sis (1989), Kurtulus (1994) and Yol Ayrimi (2017).
- Actor
- Writer
- Music Department
Rüstü Asyali, one of Turkey's most important theater and cinema artists, was born on January 1, 1947 in Elazig. After getting acquainted with the theater during high school years, he started working at Ankara Radio in 1963. He stepped into professional acting as a State Theater artist in 1970. From 1970 to 2000, he worked as an actor and director at the State Theaters. Asyali, who also worked as a guest director in private theaters, has made great contributions to theater plays, culture and art programs, and various projects in radio and television since the 1960s. He portrayed Mustafa Kemal Atatürk in a documentary called Atatürk Tells. He sang the poems in the selection titled Understanding Atatürk with Poems, which were jointly published as books and CDs by the Language Association and Konak Municipality. Asyali, who is also a voice actor, retired from the State Theaters Chief Directorship after working as a manager in many organizations related to state artists and theaters in the following years. In recent years, he has been giving beautiful and effective speaking, speaker-presenting, voice-over and acting training in a private academy.- He was born in Nicosia in 1961. He was graduated from MimarSinan University State Conservatoire Drama School in 1983. He started acting in Istanbul State Theatre in 1983. He is still working in the same theatre as an actor and a director. He directed the following theatre plays: "Hosu'nun Utanci/ Shame of Hosu" in Istanbul State Theatre,"Yasar Ne Yasar Ne Yasamaz" in Trabzon State Theatre, Adana State Theatre, Bursa State Theatre and Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality Theatre and "Yolcu/ The Passenger" adapted from Mevlana's Mesnevi in Kocaeli Metropolitan Municipality Theatre. He also directed the plays "Deli Ibrahim/Ibrahim the Mad" in Bursa Metropolitan Municipality Theatre, "Kanli Nigar/Bloody Nigar" in Bursa State Theatre, "Esegin Golgesi/ The Shadow of the Donkey" and "Gözlerimi Kaparim, Vazifemi Yaparim/ I Close My Eyes and Do My Duty" in Ankara State Theatre.
He was awarded as the best actor for his performance in RehaErdem's movie "Mommy, I'm scared " in both International Nurnberg Film Festival and International Ankara Film Festival. He was also awarded as the best actor for his performance in Tolga Ornek's movie "Devrim Arabalari/ Cars of the Revolution". He narrated the fairy tales "Peter and the Wolf" with Istanbul Symphonic Orchestra in 2011 and "Nasreddin Hodja" with Bursa Symphonic Orchestra in 2013. He worked as an acting teacher in Eskisehir AnotoliaUniversity State Conservatoire for five years. He has been teaching in Bahcesehir University for seven years. He also has been working as a dubbing artist and acting in various TV series and movies. He's married with one child. - He was born in 1965, Kuskan was graduated from Istanbul University State Conservatory. Right after his graduation, he starred in various Film and TV projects. Along with tie International Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival and Istanbul/ Ankara Film Festivals. He was awarded for his Outstanding performances on stage and in movies as well.
- Hakan Boyav was born on 10 January 1964 in Izmir, Turkey. He is an actor, known for The International (2009), Payitaht Abdülhamid (2017) and At the Bar (2007).
- Ege Aydan was born on 15 June 1958 in Ankara, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Kurtulus (1994), Anadolu Leopari (2021) and A Small September Affair (2014).
- Selçuk Yöntem was born on 13 July 1953 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Cars of the Revolution (2008), Block C (1994) and The Valley of the Wolves (2003).
- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Haki Biçici was born on 11 June 1981 in Ankara, Turkey. He is an actor and director, known for A Guide to Living for the Dead (2023), Iyi Bir Aile Degiliz (2024) and Hot Skull (2022). He has been married to Derya Karadas since 22 May 2016.- Tayfun Eraslan was born on 2 June 1967 in Berlin, Germany. He is an actor, known for Kurtlar Vadisi: Irak (2006), Elde Var Hayat (2010) and Three Sisters (2022).
- Actor
- Writer
- Second Unit Director or Assistant Director
Halil Ergün was born on 8 September 1946 in Iznik, Bursa, Turkey. He is an actor and writer, known for Yaprak Dökümü (2006), Böcek (1995) and Mum Kokulu Kadinlar (1996).- Ihsan Devrim was born in 1914 in Istanbul, Turkey. He was an actor, known for Bir Bey'in Oglu (1988), Metres (1983) and Sahane Evlilik (1989). He died on 6 January 2010 in Istanbul, Turkey.
- Ismet Ay was born on 28 December 1924 in Sile, Istanbul, Turkey. He was an actor, known for Rosa, I Love You (1992), Renkli Dünya (1980) and Losers of the Dark City (2000). He died on 7 October 2004 in Istanbul, Turkey.
- Actor
- Editorial Department
Arif Piskin was born on 30 November 1970 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Color of Victory (2024), Dip (2018) and Gece Sesleri (2008).- Actor
- Soundtrack
Aras Bulut Iynemli is a Turkish actor. Iynemli has won numerous accolades for his acting since the beginning of his career. He is best known for his performances in the television series Oyle Bir Gecer Zaman ki (English: As Time Goes by), Muhtesem Yuzyil (English: Magnificent Century), Maral, Icerde (English: Inside) and Cukur (English: The Pit).
He has an older brother, actor Orcun Iynemli and an older sister, television host and singer Yesim Iynemli. Other relatives who are actors are Miray Daner (cousin), Cengiz Daner (uncle) and Ilhan Daner (great uncle).
After playing a role in 2-3 commercials, he got a role in the drama series Oyle Bir Gecer Zaman ki in 2010. This drama gained international success and Iynemli received a reward as well. Before this he had also worked in the drama Back Street, but he took a hiatus after the first part as he had to complete his education of aircraft engineering. He won OSS (SAT exam in Turkey) as one of first 100 students. He continued his studies at the Istanbul Technical University. In 2011, while he was 20 he received the Antalya Television Award for Best Supporting Actor.
In 2013 he appeared in the Azerbaijani-Turkish movie Mahmut and Meryem, based on a novel by Elcin Efendiyev. He played a disabled boy in Tamam miyiz? and portrayed Sehzade Bayezid on Muhtesem Yuzyil in the same year.
In 2015, Iynemli was selected to play the main male character in the series Maral: En Guzel Hikayem together with the actress Hazal Kaya. In 2016-17, he played the role of Umut Yilmaz / Mert Karadag in Icerde. In 2017, he began playing the role of Yamac Kocovali in Cukur.
In 2019, Iynemli portrayed a mentally ill father who was wrongly imprisoned for murder in 7. Kogustaki Mucize, which broke viewing records in Turkey within a short period. After the movie was broadcast on Netflix, it was well received by audience in France and Latin America.
In addition to his acting career, Iynemli has appeared in many advertising films and is the face of numerous brands.- Sercan Badur is an award-winning actor and drama acting coach, known for his outstanding contributions to the performing arts. He completed the Theatre Education Program at Istanbul's Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, a renowned drama acting school in Turkey.
Sercan's talent has earned him international recognition, with his involvement in projects that have won prestigious awards at festivals like the Williamsburg Film Festival, New Theatre Magazine, and the Golden Palm Festival. His notable performance as Cihan, a mentally disabled individual, in "War of the Roses" garnered significant attention in South America, the Middle East, and the Balkans.
Beyond his acting career, Sercan has collaborated with global brands such as Unilever, Osis Watch, Welder Watch, and Caffe Nero. He has also engaged in international projects and theater performances across Europe. In 2018, he hosted Spain's Ben10 Challenge, propelling his career to new heights.
Sercan's passion extends beyond the spotlight, as he actively participates in non-profit and charity work. He strives to raise awareness for Autism, Animal Rights, Education, and Rare Diseases. Through his dedication, he discovered a profound calling to work with children, inspiring others to follow their artistic pursuits.
Sercan Badur's journey exemplifies his talent, ambition, and commitment to making a positive impact. As an actor, drama coach, and compassionate advocate, he continues to leave a lasting impression on the world of performing arts, inspiring others to pursue their passions. - Actor
- Producer
Ergun Uçucu was born on 31 January 1940. He was an actor and producer, known for The Honest One (1984), Iffet (1982) and Aile Kadini (1984). He died on 14 June 2019.- Actor
- Producer
Ercan Yazgan was born on 4 April 1946 in Sinop, Turkey. He was an actor and producer, known for Durusma (1999), Sarmas Dolas (1977) and Telling Tales (2015). He died on 8 March 2018 in Istanbul, Turkey.- Actor
- Art Department
- Music Department
Mehmet Akan was born on 5 December 1939 in Birecik, Sanliurfa, Turkey. He was an actor, known for Kesanli Ali Destani (1964), Teyzem (1986) and Asiye Nasil Kurtulur (1986). He was married to Alev Akan. He died on 8 July 2006 in Istanbul, Turkey.- Actor
- Composer
- Music Department
Müslüm Gürses was born on 7 May 1953 in Sanliurfa, Turkey. He was an actor and composer, known for For My Son (2015), Love Likes Coincidences (2011) and Kolpaçino (2009). He was married to Muhterem Nur. He died on 3 March 2013 in Istanbul, Turkey.- Actor
- Second Unit Director or Assistant Director
Eray Özbal was born in 1957 in Gaziantep, Turkey. He is an actor and assistant director, known for The Yellow Mercedes (1992), Davaci (1987) and At the Bar (2007).- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Ugur Yücel is a Turkish film actor, producer and director. He graduated from the Theater Department of the Istanbul Municipality Conservatory (Istanbul Belediye Konservatuari Tiyatro Bölüm). He took part in several plays between 1975 and 1984 in Kenter Tiyatrosu (Kenter Theatre), Tef Kabare Theatre, Dormen Theatre, and San Müzikholü. He was noticed for his roles in Selamsiz Bandosu (1987) and Muhsin Bey (1987), then gained mainstream success when he took part in Eskiya (1996).- Devrim Nas was born on 10 January 1972. He is an actor, known for Sis ve Gece (2007), Doktorlar (2006) and Ikinci Bahar (1998).
- Tüfekcioglu graduated from the Theater Department of Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University. After his conservatory education, he started to work at the State Theatres.
He worked at Bursa State Theater, Antalya State Theater and Istanbul State Theater and retired from Istanbul State Theater in 2009.
Tüfekcioglu died of liver failure on May 17, 2017 in a hospital in Istanbul where he was being treated.
His grave is in Cengelköy Cemetery. - Özden Özgürdal was born on 15 April 1965 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Back Streets (2006), Gönül Sultanlari: Aziz Mahmud Hüdayi - Hüdayi Yolu (1993) and Bitirimler Sinifi (1975). He has been married to Ayse Erbulak since 2015. They have one child.
- Actor
- Writer
Kutay Köktürk was born in 1948. He is an actor and writer, known for Kurtulus (1994), Bana Sans Dile (2001) and Fasulye (2000).- Actor
- Producer
Kerem Alisik (born 5 June 1960) is a Turkish actor and television presenters. He is the only son of famous actors of Turkish cinema Sadri Alisik and Çolpan Ilhan. Between 1988-1992, he was married to actress Sibel Turnagöl. He has appeared in many Turkish series and movies. He is known for his directorship and production of Savas Ay and the film The Belly Dancer (Dansöz). Most recently he has appeared on the TV series Ben Onu Çok Sevdim.
He first started his acting career in 1990 when he appeared as Bahadir Tok Shout in Aci Kader. He gained further recognition in 1997 when he landed a recurring role in the mini series Oyun Bitti.- Actor
- Music Department
- Soundtrack
Ragip Savas was born on 24 October 1966 in Izmit, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Valley of the Wolves: Ambush (2007), Neredesin Firuze (2004) and Ben Bu Cihana Sigmazam (2022). He has been married to Fadime Sezer since 25 September 2005.- Mehmet Çepiç was born on 8 February 1962 in Ankara, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Berivan (2002), Sicak Saatler (1998) and Intikam Oyunlari (2023).
- Onur Ünsal was born in Izmir in 1985. He decided early on to make a career of acting and is now into his third year at the Drama Department of Istanbul University's Conservatoire. He has performed in a number of stage productions, most recently with Oyun Atölyesi, the theatre company founded by Haluk Bilginer and Zuhal Olcay, in Azrail'in Gözyaslari (Tears of the Angel of Death). His role in Borrowed Bride marks his cinema debut.
- Actor
- Producer
Metin Akdulger is Turkish actor. He was born on April 10, 1988, in Bursa, Turkey. His family is of Turkish descent who immigrated from Thessaloniki and Skopje. Also, Other part of his family is Yugoslav immigrants. He studied International Relations at Koc University, Istanbul. Since his study life, he had a great interest in acting. During his academic life, he made many short films with the cooperation of his friends. Initially, he started his career in theatre, but Turkish drama series Medcezir (Tides) became the reason for his worldwide recognition in which he played the role of Orkun Civanoglu. However, people saw him into a transformed look in Muhtesem Yuzyil: Kosem (Magnificent Century: Kosem) where he played the role of Murad IV. He received high appreciation because of his excellent acting in Muhtesem Yuzyil: Kosem (Magnificent Century: Kosem) as well. He studied on Craft Acting Studio and attended to Cag Caliskur Acting Workshops. What's more, he took part in Susan Batson Studio Workshop in 2016. In 2018, he acted in a solo theater play called "Baldan Karanlik" which is about a puppy's dramatic consequences. And also in Sahsiyet (Tv series), that has been rated in Top 30 Tv Shows at IMDb.- Mete Horozoglu was born on 11 October 1975 in Ankara, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Nefes: Vatan Sagolsun (2009), Kayip (2013) and Takim: Vatan Sana Canim Feda (2011).
- Actor
- Writer
Civan Canova was born on 28 June 1955 in Ankara, Turkey. He was an actor and writer, known for Eve Dönüs (2006), What Is Fatmagul's Fault? (2010) and The Gift (2019). He was married to Açelya Akkoyun. He died on 20 August 2022 in Istanbul, Turkey.- Gün Koper was born on 9 July 1986 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Love and Revolution (2011), Dip (2018) and 61 Days (2016).
- Yagiz Can Konyali was born on 20 September 1991 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Takim: Mahalle Askina! (2015), Av: The Hunt (2020) and Ates (2016).
- Orhan Alkaya was born on 5 February 1958 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Seni Seviyorum (1983), Yüregine Sor (2010) and Sari Tebessüm (1993).
- Actor
- Music Department
Renan Bilek was born on 6 October 1968 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Time Goes By (2010), Pocket Hercules: Naim Süleymanoglu (2019) and Yesil Deniz (2014).- Emre Yetim was born on 11 November 1986 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Nefes: Vatan Sagolsun (2009), Miracle in Cell No. 7 (2019) and Av: The Hunt (2020).
- He graduated from Anadolu University State Conservatory Theater Department and completed his education life. His first acting experience was known as the driver 'Besir' in the 'Ask-i Memnu' series, which was adapted into a movie by Halid Ziya Usakligil. Baran Akbulut, who has appeared in many TV series and movies, has made a great progress in acting in a short time.
- Actor
- Music Department
Levent Üzümcü was born on 6 July 1972 in Izmir, Turkey. He is an actor, known for Abimm (2009), Not Knowing (2019) and Beyza'nin Kadinlari (2006). He has been married to Ebru Üzümcü since 17 February 1997. They have two children.- Kerem Atabeyoglu was born on 9 February 1968 in Istanbul, Turkey. He is an actor, known for The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles (1992), Eastern Plays (2009) and Marasli (2021).
- Actor
- Composer
- Music Department
Raif Özkan Ugur (born October 17, 1953 in Istanbul) is a Turkish pop musician, member of the renowned band Mazhar-Fuat-Özkan and an actor.
He was born as the 5th child of his family. He graduated Resat Nuri Güntekin Primary School where he met and started playing mandolin. Afterwards, while he was studying in Fenerbahçe High School, he formed a band called Atomikler and covered popular songs of the time.
He started his career as a musician in the Serif Yüzbasioglu Orchestra as a bass guitarist. In 1971, Özkan joined Mazhar Alanson and Fuat Güner in the duo "Kaygisizlar" ("The Unworrieds") The band was dissolved in 1972. Between 1972 and 1975, Özkan played Anatolian rock music with Baris Manço in his band Kurtalan Ekspres, in "TER" of Erkin Koray, "Dostlar" of Edip Akbayram, "Kardaslar" of Seyhan Karabay and "Dadaslar" of Ersen. In 1976, he left Anatolian rock music genre and joined the quintet "Ipucu" led by the MFÖ trio. Özkan formed in 1978 the band "Grup Karma" with Galip Boransu and Cengiz Teoman. He is now playing in the group MFÖ (the three letters stand for the names of the three members: Mazhar Alanson, Fuat Güner, Özkan Ugur). While playing the bass guitar in MFÖ, he performs incredibly difficult vocals with his tenor timbre. He released "Aynada" ("In The Mirror" in Turkish) single from DMC in 2016.
He was also a judge in O Ses Türkiye (2011) (Turkish version of The Voice).
In first of his professional years, he tried to make a bass guitar. The bass guitar he is using is a Fender Jazz Bass which was given by Baris Manço. Also he had a fretless guitar which he makes the maintenance and repair himself every month. One of his interview he talk about value of his bass guitar : " I spent my life with it. I will never sell it even they give me billions of dollars."- Actor
- Writer
- Producer
Born in 1944 Istanbul, Turkey. Graduated from Vefa High School, Fatih, Istanbul. Sunal acted in many popular films, although he began his artistic career in the theater. His first play was called, "Unwilling Doctor" and he later worked at the Devekusu Kabare Theatre with Ulvi Uraz. Although Sunal had minor roles at first, after 1973 he was highly acclaimed for his roles in movies with large casts. He won the Antalya Film Festival's Golden Orange Award in 1977. He contributed greatly to Turkish cinema with his successful acting, including his roles in such movies as "Hababam Sinifi" (Outrageous Class), "Kapicilar Krali" (King of Janitors), "Salako" (Moron), "Inek Saban" (Shaban the Cow) and "Davaro". Sunal's latest role was in Sinan Cetin's border comedy "Propaganda"(1999). He also made a TV commercial.
Kemal Sunal died suddenly of a heart attack on July 3 at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport. he had just boarded the plane for Trabzon, where he was to take part in the filming of director Ali Ozgenturk's "Balalaika" (2000).
His death caused a wave of sorrow across Turkey. President Ahmet Necdet Sezer, Prime Minister Bulent Ecevit and Minister of Culture Istemihan Talay and other politicians sent messages of condolence expressing their sorrow.- Actor
- Second Unit Director or Assistant Director
- Additional Crew
He was born and grew up in Istanbul. He started his career at Bakirkoy Community Center Theatre. Later he worked at Ankara State Theatre, Istanbul State Theatre and Istanbul City Theatre. He also worked in small play houses with today's famous actors and actresses. He made his place in the theatre stronger with the play Fareler ve Insanlar (Mice and Men). Although he was a known stage actor he became famous nationwide with his movies, after 1950's.
In 1970's, he took part in many Ertem Egilmez movies which contained other famous names of the time. In those movies he mostly played with actress Adile Nasit as a duo and they became a memorable couple in the minds of the audience. His most known role is Kel Mahmut (Mahmut the Bald), who is the idealist principal of a high school with troubled students in Hababam Sinifi; movie series. Kel Mahmut (a.k.a. Mahmut Hoca) tries to help those students and guide them to a better life.
Ozkul, secluded himself from public when the TV started to become popular. Yet, he appeared in some TV shows as a guest star or in small parts.
Turkish Ministry of Culture awarded him with the title State Artist, in 1998.
In his youth he had some problems with his drinking habit. After that he spent the most of his life fighting against alcohol and by the 1990s he quit drinking, completely.
Ozkul's been married for 4 times and he has 3 children from those marriages. His first wife was Sadan, the second one was a famous actress Suna Selen, the third one was Yasar and the fourth and current one is Umman Ozkul with whom he's been married for 27 years now. One of his children, Guner Ozkul, is an actress and a TV presenter.
He's been suffering from Dementia since the early 2000s and, as a result of this disease, he almost never leaves home.
He's been battling with dementia and COPD for almost two decades and on January 5th, 2018 he lost that battle. He died at his home in Istanbul, where he lived the rest of his days with his family, at the age of 93.- Actor
- Writer
- Director
Halit Akcatepe was a Turkish actor. Akcatepe was born in Üsküdar in 1938, the son of Sitki Akcatepe. In 1943, he made his debut in the film "Dertli Pinar" at the age of 5 and made more appearances in other films in some child roles. Akcatepe completed his studies in Saint Benoit French High School. In 1956. he joined the army and stayed there for 1,5 years before returning to acting. Akcatepe became a household name for his parts in "Ah Nerede Vah Nerede" in 1960 and the films "Yasak", "Gundogarken" and "Semaya baktim Seni Gordum" in 1963. In 1975, he acted in "Hababam Sinifi" and then later its sequels "Hababam Sinifi Sinifta Kaldi", "Hababam Sinifi Dokuz Doguruyor" and "Hababam Sinifi Tatilde".- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Zeki Alasya (18 April 1943 - 8 May 2015) was a Turkish actor and film director. Alasya was of Turkish Cypriot descent and was related to Kibrisli Mehmed Kamil Pasha.
Alasya was born in Istanbul. After studying at Robert College, he joined MTTB Theatre as an amateur actor. For a short time, he worked at Arena, Gen-Ar and Ulvi Uraz Theatre. With some friends, he founded the Devekusu Kabare Theatre (Ostrich Cabaret Theatre).
From 1973, he started acting in films and gained fame as a comedian paired with Metin Akpinar like Salak Milyoner, Bes Milyoncuk Borç Verir misin, Köyden Indim Sehire, Güler misin Aglar misin, Nerden Çikti Bu Velet, Nereye Bakiyor Bu Adamlar, Hasip ile Nasip and Güle Güle. In 1977, he also took up directing and went on to direct films such as Aslan Bacanak, Sivri Akillilar, Caferin Çilesi, Petrol Krallari, Doktor, Köse Kapmaca, Vay Basimiza Gelenler and Elveda Dostum.
Alasya died on 8 May 2015 in the hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for liver disease. He was 72. He was laid to rest in Zincirlikuyu Cemetery following the religious funeral service held at Levent Mosque.- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Born in 1942, Metin Akpinar started acting at the age of 20 with an amateur dramatics society. He landed his first professional stage role two years later, in 1964, and this was followed by performances in several leading theatre productions. In 1967, he co-founded the Devekusu Theatre, Turkey's first cabaret theatre. His film career took off in 1972, when he acted in the first of several Ertem Egilmez comedies to follow. Soon after, he developed an enduring screen partnership with the actor and director, Zeki Alasya, the two gaining popularity as a pair of comic dimwits. It was only in the 1990s that Akpinar, by now an experienced actor, broke away and decided to go his own way in film, theatre and television alike.- Savas Yurttas was born in 1944 in Pinarbasi, Kayseri, Turkey. He was an actor, known for Bebek (1980), The Yellow Mercedes (1992) and Asiye Nasil Kurtulur (1986). He died on 8 April 2002 in Ankara, Turkey.
- Actor
- Director
- Writer
He is a Turkish Arabesque music singer. He was born in Adana in 1945. His name was given by his father after inspired from a famous theatre artist "Ferdi Tayur". After his father was murdered, he started a new school. At the same age he worked in a farm. But he left his country with a passion to be a singer when he is 17. After he tried his chance a few times, one company called him to make a record when he is 25. At 1973 and 1974 he recorded 5 single and stepped into a new life. But in spite of this it was not enough for him. His made a new album "Aksam Gunesi" from his new own company then he closed it and agreed with Elenor Company. He played in his first movie "Cesme" in 1976 with his wife Necla Nazir. This movie was one of the biggest milestones in his life. In this period Arabesque music was spread all around the Turkey with his help. He was the biggest Arabesque Star. He didn't stop after that movie and made lots of them so far... Nowadays he continues his style with different music sounds and some TV series.- Erol Tas was born on 28 February 1928 in Karaköse, Erzurum, Turkey. He was an actor, known for Yilmayan Seytan (1972), Diyet (1974) and Ince Cumali (1967). He died on 8 November 1998 in Istanbul, Turkey.
- Actor
- Director
- Writer
Hüseyin Peyda was born in 1919 in Sanliurfa, Turkey. He was an actor and director, known for Onu Kötü Vurdular (1977), Bu nasil ask (1953) and Cibil (1977). He died on 31 July 1990 in Istanbul, Turkey.- Actor
- Director
- Producer
Sümer Tilmaç was born on 15 July 1948 in Malatya, Turkey. He was an actor and director, known for Son (2002), Kurtulus (1994) and Japon Isi (1987). He was married to Hatice Melek. He died on 12 June 2015 in Istanbul, Turkey.