The Turkish entertainment industry has gained immense popularity in recent years, with its actors and actresses becoming household names in various countries, including Pakistan. Turkish dramas and films are celebrated for their compelling storytelling, stunning visuals, and exceptional performances. For our readers in Pakistan, many of these actors have become iconic figures due to their appearances in locally broadcasted Turkish series. In this blog, we dive deep into the lives and careers of the top 10 Turkish actors, showcasing what makes them stand out in entertainment.
1. Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ
Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ, often referred to as the “Brad Pitt of Turkey,” is one of the top 10 Turkish actors in the Turkish entertainment industry. Born on October 27, 1983, in Adana, Turkey, Tatlıtuğ initially pursued a career in basketball before an injury forced him to shift gears. He then turned to modeling, where he quickly gained recognition and was named “Best Model of the World” in 2002.
Tatlıtuğ’s acting breakthrough came with the television series Aşk-ı Memnu (Forbidden Love), in which he portrayed the emotionally complex character Behlül Haznedar. The series was not only a massive hit in Turkey but also gained a cult following internationally, especially in Pakistan.
Some of his other notable works include:
“Kuzey Güney” (North South): A drama about two brothers with contrasting personalities.
“Cesur ve Güzel” (Brave and Beautiful): A romantic thriller that showcased his versatility.
Tatlıtuğ has won several awards, including the Golden Butterfly Award for Best Actor, and remains a prominent figure as one of the Turkish top 10 male actors in Turkish cinema and television.
2. Engin Akyürek
Engin Akyürek’s rise to fame is a testament to his incredible talent and dedication solidifying his place among the top 10 Turkish actors. Born on October 12, 1981, in Ankara, Turkey, Akyürek initially studied history at Ankara University before pursuing acting. His career took off after winning the “Turkey’s Stars” talent competition in 2004.
Akyürek gained widespread recognition for his role in “Fatmagül’ün Suçu Ne?” (What is Fatmagül’s Fault?), a series that dealt with sensitive social issues. His portrayal of Kerim Ilgaz earned him critical acclaim and established him as a leading actor.
Other significant works include:
“Kara Para Aşk” (Black Money Love): A gripping drama where he played a police officer investigating his fiancée’s murder.
“Sefirin Kızı” (The Ambassador’s Daughter): A love story with complex emotions and twists.
His nuanced performances have earned him awards like the Seoul International Drama Award for Best Actor, securing his place as one of the top 10 Turkish male actors in 2024.
3. Burak Özçivit
Burak Özçivit is a name that resonates with elegance and charm earning him a spot in the top 10 Turkish actors. Born on December 24, 1984, in Istanbul, Turkey, Özçivit started his career as a model and was named Best Model of Turkey in 2003. His good looks and charismatic personality soon led him to act.
Özçivit rose to international fame with his role in “Kara Sevda” (Endless Love), the first Turkish drama to win an International Emmy Award. His portrayal of Kemal Soydere, a man torn between love and revenge, won hearts worldwide.
Currently, Özçivit stars as Osman Bey in the historical drama “Kuruluş: Osman” (Establishment: Osman), which continues to be a massive hit. His dedication to his roles and ability to embody diverse characters make him one of the top 10 famous Turkish actors today.
4.Can Yaman
Can Yaman is a rising star among the top 10 Turkish actors, whose global popularity has skyrocketed recently. Born on November 8, 1989, in Istanbul, Turkey, Yaman initially pursued a career in law and graduated from Yeditepe University’s Faculty of Law. However, his passion for acting eventually led him to the entertainment industry.
Yaman became a sensation with his role as Can Divit in “Erkenci Kuş” (Daydreamer), a romantic comedy where his chemistry with co-star Demet Özdemir was a major highlight. This series gained massive international success, and he became one of the top 10 most famous Turkish actors, particularly in South Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
He has also starred in other series like:
“Dolunay” (Full Moon): A romantic drama with an intriguing storyline.
“Bay Yanlış” (Mr. Wrong): Another romantic comedy that showcased his playful side.
Yaman’s undeniable charisma has cemented his status as one of the top 10 Turkish male actors admired worldwide.
5. Engin Altan Düzyatan
Engin Altan Düzyatan is a name synonymous with historical dramas. Born on July 26, 1979, in Izmir, Turkey, Düzyatan studied theater at Dokuz Eylül University and began his acting career in the early 2000s.
He is best known for his portrayal of Ertuğrul Bey in the epic historical drama “Diriliş: Ertuğrul” (Resurrection: Ertuğrul). The series, which aired from 2014 to 2019, depicts the life of Ertuğrul Ghazi, the father of Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. This role brought him international fame, especially in Pakistan, where the show was immensely popular and earned him a spot in the top 10 Turkish actors.
Düzyatan’s portrayal of a noble and fearless leader earned him numerous awards and cemented his status as one of the top 10 Turkish male actors.
6. Çağatay Ulusoy
Born on September 23, 1990, in Istanbul, Turkey, Çağatay Ulusoy started his career as a model and won the Best Model of Turkey contest in 2010. His acting debut came with the hit series “Adını Feriha Koydum” (I Named Her Feriha), which gained significant popularity and made him stand out among the top 10 Turkish actors.
Ulusoy’s versatility shone in “Medcezir,” the Turkish adaptation of the American series “The O.C.” In 2018, he took on a groundbreaking role in “The Protector,” Netflix’s first Turkish original series, where he played a young man destined to protect Istanbul from supernatural forces.
Ulusoy’s dedication to his craft and ability to take on diverse roles have made him one of the top 10 Turkish actors of 2024 in the industry.
7. Barış Arduç
Barış Arduç, born on October 9, 1987, in Switzerland, is known for his natural charisma and talent. He gained widespread fame with his role as Ömer İplikçi in the romantic comedy “Kiralık Aşk” (Love for Rent), where his charming portrayal won the hearts of audiences.
Arduç’s other notable works include:
“Kuzgun”: A drama about revenge and redemption.
“Alparslan: Büyük Selçuklu” (Alparslan: The Great Seljuk): A historical series that highlights his versatility.
Arduç’s warm personality and acting skills have earned him a rank as a Turkish top 10 actor toward his loyal fan base.
8. Burak Deniz
Burak Deniz, born on February 17, 1991, in Istanbul, Turkey, is a versatile actor celebrated for his ability to portray emotional, complex, and exceptional acting skills that have earned him a place among the top 10 Turkish actors. Deniz began his acting career with supporting roles in TV series. However, it was his breakout role as Murat Sarsılmaz in the romantic comedy “Aşk Laftan Anlamaz” (Love Doesn’t Understand Words) that catapulted him to fame.
Burak Deniz further solidified his place in the industry with his role in “Bizim Hikaye” (Our Story), the Turkish adaptation of the hit American series “Shameless”. Playing the role of Barış, a charming yet enigmatic man who loves deeply but struggles with his flaws.
In 2021, Deniz starred in the action-packed drama “Maraşlı”, where he portrayed a former soldier-turned-bodyguard seeking justice.
Known for his magnetic screen presence and deep emotional expression, Deniz has won several awards, including recognition for his performances in romantic and dramatic roles. His ability to connect with audiences worldwide ensures his place among Turkey’s finest actors.
9. İbrahim Çelikkol
İbrahim Çelikkol, born on February 14, 1982, in Izmit, Turkey, İbrahim Çelikkol has firmly established himself as one of the top 10 Turkish actors, in the Turkish entertainment industry. Before embarking on an acting career, Çelikkol was a professional basketball player.
Çelikkol’s acting debut was in the series “Pars: Narkoterör”, where he played a police officer tackling drug crimes. However, it was his performance in “Merhamet” (Mercy) that brought him critical acclaim. In this gripping drama, Çelikkol played Fırat, a man haunted by his past and torn between love and ambition. His nuanced performance won the hearts of viewers.
One of his most memorable roles came in the romantic drama “Siyah Beyaz Aşk” (Black and White Love), where he portrayed Ferhat, a stoic and cold-hearted man whose life takes an unexpected turn when he falls in love.
Beyond his acting, İbrahim Çelikkol is admired for his humble personality and passion for nature. His roles often reflect a sense of strength and vulnerability, making him one of the Turkish top 10 actors.
10. Kerem Bürsin
Kerem Bürsin, born on June 4, 1987, in Istanbul, Turkey, has emerged as one of the most internationally recognized top 10 Turkish actors. He graduated from Emerson College in Boston with a degree in Marketing and Communications but later decided to pursue his passion for acting.
Bürsin’s acting career in Turkey took off with his role in “Güneşi Beklerken” (Waiting for the Sun), where he played the rebellious Kerem Sayer. His portrayal of a troubled young man striving for redemption won him critical acclaim and introduced him to Turkish audiences.
However, it was his role as Serkan Bolat in the romantic comedy “Sen Çal Kapımı” (You Knock on My Door) that catapulted him to international fame. Paired with Hande Erçel, Bürsin portrayed a wealthy and perfectionist businessman whose life changes when he meets Eda, a spirited florist. The series became a global phenomenon, particularly in South Asia, Europe, and Latin America, earning Bürsin legions of fans worldwide.
Bürsin’s ability to balance charm, humor, and emotional depth in his roles has earned him numerous awards, including accolades for Best Actor, and remains a prominent figure in Turkish cinema.
Conclusion
These top 10 Turkish actors have not only shaped the Turkish entertainment industry but have also captivated audiences worldwide. From historical dramas to romantic comedies, their talent continues to inspire fans everywhere, including Pakistan. Their dedication to their craft and ability to portray deeply human characters resonate with viewers from diverse backgrounds, including the Pakistani audience. They represent the very best of Turkish cinema and television, ensuring its continued success on the international stage.