Top 8 Turkish TV Series That Are a Must-Watch
Hello friends,
I've been meaning to drop some wisdom on the ultimate Turkish Dizi watchlist, mainly because I love making lists but also because it makes me happy to know when people actually follow my advice and watch a show simply because I suggested it.
Let's face it: my taste might be as stubborn as a cat stuck in a tree, but I figured it's time to spill the beans in one epic guide. Trust me, my opinions might be as unpredictable as a weather forecast, but if a show made it to this list, it's like an invitation to the wildest Turkish Dizi rollercoaster. Love 'em, hate 'em, but once you dive in, it's like trying to resist chocolate – practically impossible!
I've been in a committed relationship with Turkish TV for what feels like a lifetime. While I'd love to unleash a TV show manifesto that rivals the Encyclopedia Britannica, I'll spare you and stick to the top-notch shows that have been tickling my funny bone for the past twelve years. Brace yourselves for a mix of timeless classics (in no particular order) and shows so fresh they're practically still in the delivery room!
1. KARA SEVDA (Endless Love, 2015)
Kemal Soydere hails from a middle-class background, while Nihan, the daughter of affluent socialites Önder and Vildan Sezin, shares a close bond with her twin brother, Ozan. Despite their differing social statuses, Kemal and Nihan's paths cross and instantly enamored, they embark on a love story that transcends societal norms.
However, their blissful union takes a tragic turn when Emir Kozgoulu, infatuated with Nihan and backed by her mother's desire for luxury, orchestrates an accident that implicates Ozan in a fatal incident. Faced with the threat of Ozan going to jail, Nihan succumbs to the pressure and agrees to marry Emir, leaving Kemal heartbroken.
Distraught but determined, Kemal leaves Istanbul and immerses himself in mining work to cope with the pain of separation. Through his dedication and intervention in a mining accident, Kemal rises through the ranks, attaining a position of influence within the company.
Five years later, burdened by unresolved emotions and a desire to confront the past, Kemal decides to return to Istanbul.
Kara Sevda wasn't my Turkish dizi initiation – more like my gateway drug into the wild world of Turkish TV dramas set in the modern era. It made me wonder, are these shows actually well-made or just Turkish soap with a side of chaos?
The series throws in societal showdowns, more family secrets than a gossip column, and protagonists attempting to adult their way through life. Kemal and Nihan's rollercoaster of a love story features more twists than a pretzel, selfless acts that put Mother Teresa to shame, and a forbidden love that's basically the Beyoncé of the narrative.
I'll admit, I wept enough tears during the finale to rival a monsoon. So, if you plan on diving in, pack some emotional scuba gear – you'll need it!
Ah, this marks the moment when I first encountered Burak Özçivit, Neslihan Atagül, and Kaan Urgancioglu. Thankfully, the series showcased some of their finest acting skills, which is precisely why I consistently chose to tune in to any other productions they were part of.
2. MUHTESEM YUZYIL (Magnificent Century Saga, 2011-2017)
In the intricate tapestry of historical narratives, the saga unfolds through the reigns of seven sultans—a succession marked by Suleiman The Magnificent, Selim II, Ahmed I, Mustafa I, Murad IV, Ibrahim, and Mehmed IV.
Yet, the Sultanate of Women casts its enduring shadow across the annals, wherein the women of profound influence emerge as silent architects of power. Hurrem Sultan, Nurbanu Sultan, Safiye Sultan, and Kosem Sultan, veiled in the recesses of palace life, wove a subtle yet formidable influence, guiding the destinies of their progeny.
Within the hallowed walls, obscured from public gaze, these women navigated the corridors of authority, their subtle sway echoing through the corridors of dynastic legacy, shaping the essence of imperial power.
So, there I was, innocently strolling into the Turkish dizi universe with the grace of a newborn gazelle. The first season of Muhteşem Yüzyıl slapped me right into the glittery chaos of historical drama. And oh boy, outside Turkiye, we were all in the same boat, navigating the treacherous waters of pre-streaming (in Turkiye at least) days. No Netflix and chill for us; we had to settle for the ancient art of recap reading.
Picture this: no binge-watching, no streaming site, just VERY long recaps that spilled the beans on every plot twist. I can't recall the blog, but there was this unsung hero, a girl who blessed us with comprehensive recaps, complete with scenes transcribed. A true oasis in the desert of dizi drought, may she forever be showered with virtual flowers.
This show wasn't just a gateway drug to Turkish history; it was a full-blown obsession inducer. I dove into researching these Ottoman power players like a caffeinated squirrel on a mission. Turkiye's history became my new BFF, and I spent days uncovering the mysteries of this extraordinary culture.
But let's be real, the show itself was a wild rollercoaster. It started as 80% drama-soap, with women engaging in catfights over who knows what. However, hold on to your Ottoman hats because the tides turned during the last three seasons. Muhteşem Yüzyıl: Kosem became a glorious blend of historical insight and soap opera shenanigans.
Nurbanu, Safiye, and Kosem were my favorite Sultanas in the house, and the last seasons of Kosem, in particular, hijacked my heart. The creators were clearly head over heels in love with the subject, and it radiated in every scene. It's a Turkish show I'd recommend to all my historical fiction nerds.
Plus, if you dig beautiful dresses (never mind the historical accuracy) and TV shows set in the Renaissance, consider this your golden ticket to dizi wonderland.
3. ICERDE (Inside, 2016-2017)
In the intricate narrative weave, we delve into the lives of two brothers, Sarp, and Umut Yılmaz, severed in their shared past only to find themselves trapped on opposite sides of the moral divide.
Their father, Metin, assumes the dangerous mantle of an assassin in the employ of the formidable mafia tycoon Celal Duman, whose shadowy dominion casts its ominous specter over Istanbul. The unraveling unfolds when the judicial noose tightens around Metin, prompting Celal to employ a sinister stratagem. Three-year-old Umut becomes the pawn in this dreadful game.
A calculated gambit to ensure Metin's unwavering loyalty, it leaves an indelible mark on the destinies of the estranged brothers.
A veil of secrecy shrouds Umut's disappearance, leaving Sarp and his mother, Füsun, bereft of the truth. Metin's silence persists even until his demise within the prison's walls. The authorities, bearing a blood-stained relic—the infant Umut's T-shirt—pronounce an irrevocable dirge, leading Sarp to internalize guilt and bear the relentless haunting of fraternal loss.
Years pass, and the narrative takes a treacherous turn. Sarp, ejected from the halls of the police academy mere days before graduation by the hand of Commander Yusuf Kaya, orchestrates a tempestuous reprisal at the commencement ceremony, resulting in a year-long vacation behind bars. The orchestrated expulsion, however, unveils a clandestine pact between Sarp and Yusuf.
A meticulously choreographed plan emerges, compelling Sarp to infiltrate Celal's criminal enclave as an undercover operative, poised to bring about the magnate's downfall.
With each revelation, Sarp's resolve intensifies, fueled by the knowledge that Celal orchestrated Umut's vanishing act, igniting an unwavering determination to dismantle the architect of his brother's disappearance.
Alright, gather 'round, folks, because "Icerde" is the kind of series that sneaks up on you like that sneaky last piece of chocolate cake you swore you wouldn't eat.
I wished this show had more lives than a cat because Sarp and Mert didn't just entertain me – they shook loose emotions I didn't even know were tucked away in the dusty corners of my soul.
Their brotherly bond was like a cosmic force, and I swear it melted my heart, which I thought was impervious to anything warmer than a microwave dinner.
Now, mind you, I'm no stranger to Cagatay Ulusoy. I'd watch that man read a phone book and probably give it a standing ovation. But Aras Bulut Iynemli? First time on my screen, and holy guacamole, the guy is a wizard with emotions. "Cukur," which came later, is like the official certificate that he's one of the top-tier Turkish actors of his generation.
And when these two stellar Turkish performers share the same screen in "Icerde," it's not just a show; it's a once-in-a-lifetime event, like witnessing a unicorn doing the cha-cha.
Umut's relationship with his mother is a rollercoaster of emotions. Now, I couldn't care less about Sarp and Melek's love story, but Mert and Eylem? Oh boy, those two snatched my heart and ran with it. Move over Romeo and Juliet; we've got Mert and Eylem taking center stage.
So, buckle up, buttercups, because this show isn't just incredible; it's a powerhouse of talent (the whole cast is like a squad of overachievers, and Cetin Tekindor, who is Halis Korhan in Yali Capkini, here is a magnificent Celal). By the end, you'll be proudly declaring that Sarp Yilmaz is one of your favorite characters EVER.
It's not a suggestion; it's a mandate. Go on, treat yourself to this emotional rollercoaster; your heart will thank you, and your TV might just give you a high-five.
4. YARGI (The Judjement/Family Secrets, 2021- )
In the sprawling narrative of this series, the genesis lies within the fortuitous collision of Ilgaz (Kaan Urgancıoğlu), a well-respected public prosecutor, and Ceylin (Pınar Deniz), an aspiring young attorney.
Their destinies intertwine amidst the labyrinthine corridors of a murder case, thrusting them into an involuntary collaboration to unravel the veiled truths concealed within the cataclysmic event that etched indelible alterations upon the fabric of their lives.
The echoes of this shared pursuit reverberate through the chambers of justice as they navigate the enigmatic terrain, searching for the elusive culprit, unearthing layers of complexity that resonate with the inescapable transformations wrought by the relentless hands of fate.
Let me spill the tea on why Yargi is basically the Beyoncé of international TV series and Ilgaz Kaya is the Diziland heartthrob, stealing more hearts than a rom-com marathon. Now, gather 'round because the maestro behind this whole shebang is none other than Sema Ergenekon, the puppet master of Turkish television.
From episode one, you could feel the tectonic plates of Turkish TV shifting; she's out here changing the game, presenting characters like real people, not cardboard cutouts spouting drama clichés.
Now, let's talk casting – they didn't just pick two pretty faces and call it a day. Nope, they brought in the heavyweights, nailed the leading characters, and slapped a genius director, Ali Bilgin, on board (plus a cherry on top with Beste Sultan Kasapogullari later on). The result? It's a show that doesn't miss, hitting bullseyes with every episode. It's like trying to find a flaw in pizza – impossible.
Here's the hot take for other creators and networks: you can't just assemble a bunch of random folks, toss in two leads who are prettier than they are talented, and expect magic. Yargi's secret sauce? Every actor is a pro. The leads could legit teach acting masterclasses, and the writing? Oh, it's the Michael Jordan of scripts, never dull, always sensational. The first season? It's a 34-episode mystery that's more addicting than caffeine. Wrap your head around that.
Let's talk about Kaan – I liked him in Kara Sevda, but in Yargi? He's on fire. And Pinar Deniz, oh boy, she's not just an actress; she's Ceylin incarnate. When she cries, you cry. When she's in pain, you're in pain. I didn't even know who she was until 2021, and now? She's one of my top two Turkish actress crushes. Yargi is the Turkish TV series equivalent of a gourmet meal – you savor every bite, and you're left wanting more.
5. HER YERDE SEN (You Are Everywhere, 2019)
Selin, an architect navigating the bustling streets of Istanbul, had just settled into her new abode when an unexpected twist of fate unfolded.
A mysterious figure materializes within the confines of her freshly acquired residence, prompting Selin to channel her inner superhero, giving the stranger an unintentional lullaby with a knockout punch.
Little does she know that this intruder, Demir, is no villain but the rightful owner of the house, making a surprise return from his overseas escapades.As the befuddled duo grapples with the reality of simultaneous house purchases, Demir, harboring a sentimental connection to the very walls that witnessed his upbringing, seeks Selin's voluntary departure. However, our determined architect isn't one to yield easily; she asserts her claim, challenging Demir to vacate instead. Thus begins the comedic odyssey of two stubborn souls engaged in a real estate standoff, cohabitating in their unintentional shared dwelling.
The plot thickens as Selin's professional world collides with her domestic one. A day at the office takes a surreal turn when she discovers that her new boss is none other than the house-sharing nemesis, Demir, who has snagged a significant chunk of the company and ascended to the CEO throne.
Like a blunt force instrument, Demir's management style sends shockwaves through the workforce, stirring up a frenzy with stringent policies, including a ban on office romances.Back at the shared domicile, Selin and Demir engage in a theatrical tug-of-war, complete with immature antics and a simmering undercurrent of unresolved tension. As they grapple with their love-hate dynamic, the battleground extends beyond the living room to the office corridors. The air thickens with both animosity and unspoken desires, forcing the reluctant cohabitants to navigate the labyrinth of their complex relationship.
Alright, here we've got a series that's as unique as a cat riding a unicycle. Picture this: two leads that are basically the Batman and Robin of comedy, a show so light and fluffy it's practically a sitcom cloud. Drama? Non-existent. The chemistry between the actors? Explosive, my friend. And let's not forget about the house, the unsung hero, the third wheel with more character than your nosy neighbor.
Now, I stumbled upon this gem, not knowing a thing about the actors. No celebrity baggage, no preconceived notions. They were just Demir and Selin, the dynamic duo with a chemistry so electric it could power a small village. Watching them, I wasn't thinking about their past gigs; they were the Bonnie and Clyde of laughter, partners in crime, making me forget all my real-world problems.
This show is your one-way ticket to a love story that hits you like a Cupid-shaped wrecking ball. Demir and Selin aren't just characters; they're a power couple, a cosmic force of charm and wit. Watching their love story unfold is like witnessing a rom-com marathon without the need for tissues or emotional recovery time.
So, if you're in the market for a series that's the Turkish TV equivalent of a warm hug, look no further. It's light, it's funny, it's drama-free, and it comes with a side of chemistry that might make your heart do a backflip. Strap in for the comedic rollercoaster that is Demir and Selin because their love story is about to become your favorite guilty pleasure.
6. KUZGUN (Raven, 2019)
Kuzgun, an 8-year-old boy, enjoys a happy life with his parents, siblings, and father, Yusuf, a respected police officer. However, their lives take a dark turn one night when Yusuf and his colleague Rifat embark on a mission to apprehend Sheref, a notorious drug lord. Despite Sheref's attempt to bribe Yusuf, he steadfastly refuses, while Rifat succumbs to temptation and betrays his partner. This betrayal leads to Yusuf's imprisonment, leaving Kuzgun's family vulnerable.
The drug lord's gang also targets Yusuf's family. In a harrowing encounter, they capture Kuzgun, who miraculously manages to escape. Alone and unable to find his family, he must navigate the unforgiving streets to survive.Fast forward 20 years, and Kuzgun is poised for revenge. Despite advice to let go of his childhood traumas, he transforms himself into an instrument of retribution.
Crafting a plan, Kuzgun infiltrates Rifat's gang, aiming to ascend to power in Istanbul. His focus turns to Rifat's daughter, Dila, his childhood best friend and a London-based lawyer who rejects her family's illicit dealings. Aware of her family's wealth derived from illegal activities, Dila remains distant from her father.
Kuzgun, determined to execute his revenge, becomes Dila's secret bodyguard, concealing his true identity. Through strategic interventions, he earns her trust and, with her assistance, infiltrates Rifat's criminal organization.In a departure from typical revenge narratives, Kuzgun boldly reveals his identity early in the story. He unambiguously declares his endured pain over two decades and asserts his demand for retribution, seeking to claim his and his father's stake in the drug trade.
Kuzgun, to me, has always been in a category of its own. The way it is written and directed, the photography, everything is terrific.
Our leading man, Kuzgun, starts off as this innocent kid, but one disastrous night turns him into an adult with a scarred soul. He escapes Sheref's gang, but not before losing a kidney, getting a beatdown, and becoming the poster child for "life's not fair." Now, he's all grown up with a burning desire for revenge against those who messed with him and his father. Meanwhile, Dila's got her own tragic tale, stuck in the past with a secret that's probably more heartbreaking than will ever imagine.
Kuzgun has feelings for Dila, but revenge is his number one priority. The guy's so focused on sending Dila's dad to prison that feelings take a backseat faster than my GPS recalculating when I miss a turn.
This drama is like a drama with a capital D – each scene is more painful than stepping on a LEGO. Kuzgun can't even stand his mom, and while he doesn't hate his siblings, he's like, "Nah, I'm good without you guys." It's not that he doesn't care, but he's playing it safe, like keeping them at arm's length will save him from heartbreak. The family reunions hit you right in the feels, especially when Kuzgun lets his guard down for his little sister. I'm talking, tears streaming down my face like I just chopped an onion.
The series may not be a marathon with only 21 episodes, but each one is a gem. And just like every Ay Yapim show, the writing's so good it deserves a standing ovation.
This show introduced me to Baris Arduc, and let me tell you, I didn't even know about Kiralik Ask at that point. I started watching because the synopsis sounded intriguing, and hey, I was kind of digging Baris' mustache. Don't judge – sometimes, facial hair is the real MVP.
It turns out to be the best decision ever. Baris was an acting wizard, landing a permanent spot in my favorites list. And can we talk about Burcu Biricik? She's a force of nature in every scene, teaching acting even without uttering a single sentence. Dila, my darling, you will always be famous.
7. SEN CAL KAPIMI (Love Is In The Air, 2020-2021)
Eda Yıldız, a young and enthusiastic florist, faces the loss of her scholarship in the final year of university due to Serkan Bolat, a famous businessman and architect at Art Life. Eda harbors resentment towards Serkan for his involvement in her scholarship setback, holding him responsible for her current financial struggles. Intent on revenge, Eda tries to vandalize Serkan's car during a graduation ceremony but accidentally handcuffs them together, compelling them to spend an unexpected day stuck side by side.
The following day, Eda unexpectedly finds herself working as a flight attendant on a private jet where Serkan is a passenger. Overcoming her claustrophobia with Serkan's assistance, they form a closer bond. Their growing intimacy becomes a topic of gossip, mainly when Serkan introduces Eda as his girlfriend at his ex-girlfriend's engagement party.
As rumors of their alleged relationship circulate, Serkan proposes a deal to Eda: pretend to be his girlfriend for two months in exchange for her scholarship. Initially refusing, Eda reconsiders when her boyfriend, Cenk, ends their relationship. In a desperate moment, Eda impulsively kisses Serkan during a critical press conference about an international investment, intensifying the confusion and drama.
Now, Serkan must salvage his reputation while Eda endeavors to rectify her impulsive mistake. They devise a plan to pretend to be engaged for two months, with Serkan aiming to make his ex-girlfriend Celine envious and Eda taking on the role of Serkan's assistant.
Unlike my sporadic live sessions with "Erkenci Kus" (which I haphazardly tuned into during its second season like a confused TV channel surfer), Eda and Serkan's love saga in "Sen Çal Kapımı" has been my ride-or-die rom-com relationship since day one. I practically raised them in my living room, so it feels like I've been their relationship counselor, cheerleader, and popcorn supplier rolled into one.
Seriously, folks, we're talking about a couple that could give on-screen chemistry lessons to NASA. This romantic rollercoaster has it all: heart-wrenching angst, drama that makes soap operas blush, moments of sheer fun, scenic backdrops that put travel brochures to shame, and chemistry hotter than a jalapeño in a salsa contest.
I was initially lured into this love-fest after the abrupt demise of "Azize." I was left mourning its cancellation like it was the demise of my favorite snack supply. But lo and behold, Hande Erçel rose like a phoenix from the ashes of cancellation, and "Sen Çal Kapımı" became the unexpected rom-com hero we didn't know we needed.
What's even more commendable? The show understood when things were getting as stale as last week's bread. Cue the dramatic time jumps! I'm a sucker for shows that understand the magic of temporal leaps, and these guys nailed it. It's like they hit the fast-forward button on a microwave, and suddenly, everything was sizzling, popping, and oh-so-perfect.
So, here's to the show that turned wrong turns into romantic U-turns and to the writers who knew exactly when to sprinkle some timey-wimey goodness. Bravo, "Sen Çal Kapımı," for the most fantastic finale ever. You're the rom-com MVP, and I'm just here applauding from my cozy couch.
8. MENAJERIMI ARA (Call my Agent, 2020-2021)
In the bustling atmosphere of an Istanbul talent agency, agents work tirelessly to maintain the satisfaction of their star clients while ensuring the survival of their business. Maneuvering through a blend of personal and professional challenges, the agents deftly navigate from one situation to another.
Ego Talent Agency is led by four managers – Kıraç, Feris, Çınar, and Peride. Each day, they confront challenging scenarios, defending their unique business visions. Providing a behind-the-scenes look into the glamorous yet unpredictable world of renowned actors, these managers, along with their dedicated assistants, tackle the complexities of the industry.
Dicle, the agency's latest addition, assumes the role of Feris' assistant with aspirations of becoming an agent herself. Simultaneously, she harbors a personal mission to connect with her long-kept-secret father, Kıraç. As the narrative unfolds, Dicle delves into the intriguing dynamics of her dual quest, shedding light on the complexities within the agency and her own familial ties.
I stumbled upon the French original of this show, and let me tell you, I'd rather have had a staring contest with a snail; that's why I have no clue why I decided to embark on the remake journey, but oh boy, am I glad I did!
This show is like finding a hidden treasure, and it's not your typical lovey-dovey affair. Nope, here, the real stars are the agency, its agents, and the actors. Everything else is just sprinkles on top of the entertainment cake.
It's like a crash course in Turkish showbiz. Before this, I had a foggy notion, and now I'm feeling as clear as a freshly Windexed window. Plus, they threw in some leads who've seen more candles on their birthday cakes than I've seen on mine. It's a breath of fresh air in a world dominated by fresh-faced actors. Let's have more of these seasoned pros stealing the spotlight; they bring so much quality to the story.
It was like diving into Turkish entertainment history, and it was so well done that it made me want to know more.
As you can see, this is a list of Turkish shows that have already aired their season finale some years ago. The only exception is Yargi because while you have to watch all seasons, you can watch only season 1 and still be content. After all, it has a "finale." Also, because it's the kind of series that it doesn't matter if it will have the most awful series finale, it still deserves to be on this list.
I might add some more Turkish shows in here later once I'm done digesting the ones I'm currently feasting on. It's a delicate process, you know, like savoring a fine wine or trying to figure out why my WiFi only works when I stand on one leg. Now, don't get me wrong, some shows deserve a spot on this list. Some are so hot they're still cooking as I type this. But let's cut to the chase – not all shows this year got the memo on how to handle their story ingredients. It's like watching a cat trying to solve a Rubik's Cube – lots of confusion and little progress. Let's hope they don't cancel them when the story has not yet been developed.
Stay tuned because we're in for a wild ride with those shows on air right now! Let's see if they can stick the landing or if they'll end up in the Turkish TV blooper reel of 2024.
Be kind to one another,
Rina