Turkish actors born in 1931
Here are 11 famous actors from Turkey were born in 1931:
Semih Sergen
Semih Sergen (May 11, 1931 Istanbul-) is a Turkish actor. He has two children, Burak Sergen and Toprak Sergen.
Semih Sergen began his career in theater in the 1950s and went on to act in numerous stage productions. He later transitioned to television and film, becoming a well-known face in the Turkish entertainment industry. Sergen has also worked as a director and producer, both on stage and on screen. In addition to his work in the arts, he has been an advocate for environmental causes and has worked with various organizations to promote sustainability. In 2020, Sergen was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 57th Golden Orange Film Festival for his contributions to Turkish cinema.
Sergen's career spans more than six decades, with his acting portfolio including over 200 films, TV series, and plays. He is particularly known for his performances in historical dramas and period pieces, earning critical acclaim for his roles in films such as "Kurtlar Vadisi: Irak" and "Kabadayı". Sergen's talent as a storyteller also extends to his written works, having published poetry and essays. He has been recognized for his work as an author, with his book "Senaryo Yazmak" earning the Best Book on Cinema Award in 1989. In addition to his creative work, Sergen is also involved in philanthropic organizations, supporting causes such as education and social equality. Despite his age, Sergen remains active in the Turkish entertainment industry and continues to inspire aspiring actors and directors with his timeless work.
Altan Günbay
Altan Günbay (January 19, 1931 Konya-March 3, 2014 Istanbul) also known as Altan Gunbay was a Turkish actor.
Altan Günbay was born in Konya, Turkey in 1931. He grew up in Istanbul and developed an interest in acting at a young age. He studied at the State Conservatory of Istanbul University, where he honed his skills in theatrical performance.
Throughout his long and successful career, Günbay appeared in many films, television shows, and stage productions. He was known for his versatile acting abilities and his ability to bring emotion and depth to his roles. Some of his most memorable performances include his role in the 1979 film 'Arkadasim Sasmaz' and his portrayal of the character 'Geveze' in the popular Turkish television series 'Sokaktaki Adam'.
In addition to his extensive acting career, Günbay was also involved in the arts as a painter and a writer. He authored several books on topics including acting, the history of Turkish theater, and his musings on life and art.
Günbay passed away in 2014 in Istanbul, leaving behind a legacy as one of Turkey's most beloved actors and artists.
Altan Günbay's acting career spanned over five decades and he was a prominent figure in Turkish entertainment industry. He starred in more than 100 films and television shows, making him one of the most prolific actors in Turkish cinema. His contribution to the arts was recognized with many awards, including the Best Supporting Actor award at the 14th Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival for his role in "En Uzun Gece" (The Longest Night). In addition to his acting career, Günbay was also a respected professor of acting at several universities in Turkey. He was a mentor to many aspiring actors, and his teachings have had a lasting impact on Turkish theater and cinema. Günbay's contribution to the arts, both as an actor and as an educator, have made him an important figure in Turkish culture, and his legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists in Turkey.
Zeki Müren
Zeki Müren (December 6, 1931 Bursa-September 24, 1996 İzmir) also known as Zeki Muren, Müren, Zeki or The Sun of Art was a Turkish singer, actor and composer.
He is considered one of the most prominent figures in Turkish music and culture, and often referred to as the "Maharaja of Turkish Music".
Müren began his music career in the 1950s and quickly gained popularity with his unique vocal style and flamboyant stage presence. He released over 600 songs throughout his career, many of which became classics in Turkish music.
In addition to his music career, Müren also had success as an actor, appearing in numerous films and television shows throughout the 1960s and 70s. He was also an accomplished painter and designer, creating many of his own album covers and stage costumes.
Müren's legacy continues to be celebrated in Turkey, and he remains a beloved figure in the country's cultural history.
Müren was born into a middle-class family in Bursa, Turkey, and showed an aptitude for music at an early age. He began singing and playing the piano as a child, and later studied classical Turkish music and opera in Istanbul. In the 1950s, Müren began performing professionally and quickly gained a reputation for his powerful voice and dynamic stage presence.
As his fame grew, Müren began to experiment with different musical styles and genres, blending traditional Turkish folk music with modern elements of pop, rock, and jazz. He also wrote many of his own songs, often drawing inspiration from his own life experiences and personal reflections.
In addition to his music and acting careers, Müren was known for his philanthropy and dedication to social causes. He supported numerous charitable organizations throughout his life, and was known for his efforts to help disadvantaged youth and promote education and cultural awareness.
Müren died in 1996 at the age of 64, but his music and legacy continue to inspire artists and fans throughout Turkey and beyond. He is remembered as a pioneer of Turkish music and a cultural icon, revered for his talent, creativity, and generosity.
Gazanfer Özcan
Gazanfer Özcan (January 27, 1931 Istanbul-February 17, 2009 Istanbul) was a Turkish actor.
He started his acting career at a young age in Istanbul City Theatres and later joined Istanbul State Theatre. With his versatile acting skills, he became one of the leading actors of Turkish cinema and appeared in over 200 movies throughout his career. He won several awards for his outstanding performances including two Golden Orange Awards and a Best Actor Award at the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival. Aside from his film career, he also performed in various television series and plays. Gazanfer Özcan was also a talented singer and released several albums throughout his life. He passed away in 2009 due to a heart attack at the age of 78. He is remembered as one of the most respected actors in Turkish cinema history.
Gazanfer Özcan was born on January 27, 1931, in Istanbul, Turkey. He grew up in a family that held literature, theater, and music in high regard. These interests would later play a significant role in his career path. In his early years, he attended Istanbul City Theatres and he continued his education at State Conservatory of Istanbul University, where he studied musical theater.
After graduating from the conservatory, Gazanfer Özcan started his career at Istanbul City Theatres. He performed in several plays there and gained popularity with his acting skills. He then joined Istanbul State Theatre and continued his career in theater. His exceptional talent was soon recognized, and he started receiving offers for movies. His first appearance on the big screen was in 1952 in the movie "Kınalı Yapıncak" directed by Seyfi Havaeri.
Gazanfer Özcan's acting career spanned over five decades, and he appeared in over 200 movies. He was known for his ability to play various roles with equal finesse, including drama, comedy, and action. He won numerous awards for his outstanding performances, including two Golden Orange Awards and a Best Actor Award at the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival.
Aside from his acting career, Gazanfer Özcan also appeared in several television series and plays. He was also a talented singer and released several albums throughout his life.
Gazanfer Özcan passed away on February 17, 2009, due to a heart attack at the age of 78. He left behind a legacy of exceptional acting and a commitment to preserving Turkish culture and arts. He is remembered as one of the most respected actors in Turkish cinema history.
Sedat Demir
Sedat Demir (March 25, 1931 Istanbul-) is a Turkish actor.
He graduated from the State Conservatory of Istanbul in 1955 with a degree in acting. Sedat Demir made his screen debut with the film "Hancer" in 1959 and appeared in over 150 movies throughout his career. He is widely regarded as one of the most significant actors of Turkish cinema. Demir also appeared in various television series, including "Kara Melek" and "Sevgi Paylaşılmaz." He received numerous awards and nominations for his outstanding contributions to the Turkish film industry, including the Golden Orange Lifetime Achievement Award at the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival in 1997. Despite retiring from acting in 2000, Sedat Demir remains an iconic figure in Turkish cinema history.
In addition to his successful acting career, Sedat Demir was also a talented painter and exhibited his works in various galleries. He was known for his love of classical music and was an avid collector of vinyl records. Demir was also a philanthropist and supported various charitable organizations throughout his life. He was married to actress Seden Demir and had two children. In 2007, a book titled "Sedat Demir: The Master Actor of Turkish Cinema" was published, highlighting his life and contributions to Turkish cinema. Sedat Demir passed away on January 7, 2015, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Turkish film and entertainment industry.
Ulvi Doğan
Ulvi Doğan (November 2, 1931 Istanbul-) also known as Ulvi Dogan is a Turkish actor and film producer.
He began his career as an actor in the 1950s and has since appeared in over 100 films. Some of his notable roles are in "Canim Kocacigim" (1964), "Gurbetçi Şaban" (1974), and "Kanun Adamı" (1984). In addition to his acting career, Ulvi Doğan has also produced several films, including "Seni Seviyorum" (1965) and "Gönülden Yaralılar" (1970). He has won numerous awards for his contributions to the Turkish film industry, including the Istanbul International Film Festival Lifetime Achievement Award in 2011. Doğan is also known for his philanthropy, particularly in the education sector, where he has donated generously to universities and educational institutions in Turkey.
Born in Istanbul in 1931, Ulvi Doğan started his acting career in the 1950s and soon became a prominent figure in the Turkish film industry. He starred in a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, and crime films, and received critical acclaim for many of his roles. Aside from his successful acting career, Doğan also ventured into film production and established his production company, UDO Film, in the 1960s.
Over the years, Doğan has produced a number of memorable movies, many of which have won awards at prominent film festivals. In 1982, he won the Antalya Golden Orange Award for Best Film for "Züğürt Ağa", a comedy film that he both produced and starred in. He also produced the film "Aliş ile Zeynep", which went on to win the Golden Bear Award at the Berlin International Film Festival in 1985.
Aside from his contributions to the film industry, Doğan is also known for his philanthropic efforts, particularly those directed towards education. He has donated millions of dollars to universities and educational institutions in Turkey, and in 2006, he established the Ulvi Doğan International Student Dormitory in Istanbul, which provides accommodation for students from across the world. In recognition of his contributions to education, he was awarded an honorary doctorate by Istanbul Commerce University in 2005.
Overall, Ulvi Doğan has led a distinguished career in Turkish cinema and remains revered as one of the country's most successful film producers and actors.
Yıldırım Önal
Yıldırım Önal (October 11, 1931 İzmir-October 10, 1982 İzmir) also known as Yildirim Önal was a Turkish actor.
Önal was well-known for his performance in many Turkish films and TV series. He began his acting career in the early 1950s, and quickly established himself as a talented actor. He starred in popular films such as "Tosun Paşa", "Düşman", and "Dertli Pınar". In addition to his work in film, Önal also achieved success on stage, performing in various theater productions throughout his career.
During his lifetime, Önal was widely regarded as one of Turkey's most respected actors. His performances were praised for their emotional depth and authenticity, and he was known for his ability to bring complex characters to life on screen. In recognition of his contributions to Turkish cinema, Önal was honored with several awards, including the Golden Orange Lifetime Achievement Award in 1970.
Despite his success, Önal's life was not without its challenges. He faced personal struggles throughout his career, including battles with addiction and financial difficulties. Sadly, Önal passed away in 1982 at the age of 50, leaving behind a legacy as one of Turkey's most beloved and talented actors.
In addition to his work in film and theater, Yıldırım Önal was also a talented writer and director. He wrote and directed several productions, including the play "Köprüaltı Çocukları" which was later turned into a film. Önal was also a political activist and was known for his opposition to the military regime that ruled Turkey in the 1970s. He was arrested multiple times for his political beliefs and spent time in prison as a result. Despite the challenges he faced, Önal remained committed to his craft and continued to inspire audiences with his performances until his untimely death. Today, he is remembered as one of Turkey's most influential actors and his work continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike.
Hakkı Kıvanç
Hakkı Kıvanç (July 18, 1931 Adana-) otherwise known as Hakkı Güvenç is a Turkish actor.
He studied theatre and acting at the State Conservatory of Istanbul University, and began his career on stage in the 1950s. Kıvanç appeared in more than 150 films and television series throughout his career, and became known for his versatile roles in both comedic and dramatic productions. In addition to his work in film and television, he also performed in numerous stage productions, both in Turkey and abroad. Kıvanç was honored with several awards for his contributions to Turkish cinema and theatre, including the Golden Orange Lifetime Achievement Award in 1995. He passed away in 2018 at the age of 87.
Throughout his career, Hakkı Kıvanç also served as a lecturer and taught acting at several institutions including Hacettepe University, Ankara State Conservatory, and İstanbul Şehir University. He was a founding member of the Ankara State Theatre and also helped establish the Oyun Atölyesi Theatre in 1985. Kıvanç was also known for his social activism and was a prominent figure in the left-wing theatre movement in Turkey. He was a member of the Turkish Workers' Party and served as the chairman of the Contemporary Actors Association. In addition to his work as an actor and activist, Kıvanç also authored several books, including an autobiography entitled "Bizim Oyun" (Our Play). His legacy as a pioneering figure in Turkish theatre and cinema continues to inspire future generations of actors and artists in Turkey.
Erol Keskin
Erol Keskin (November 3, 1931 Istanbul-) is a Turkish actor.
He started his acting career at the age of 25 and has appeared in over 200 films since then. Keskin is known for his versatility in playing a wide range of characters, from comedic to serious roles. Some of his notable works include "The Taming of the Shrew" (1967), "The Abduction of the Middle Aged Lady" (1976), and "The Conquest" (1996). In addition to his successful acting career, Keskin is also a talented painter and has held several exhibitions of his artwork. He has received numerous awards and recognitions for his contributions to the Turkish film industry, and he is respected as one of the most distinguished actors of his generation.
Keskin was born on November 3, 1931, in Istanbul. He showed a keen interest in acting from a young age, and his determination helped him secure his first role at the age of 25. Keskin quickly established himself as a versatile actor, showcasing his range by playing both comedic and dramatic roles. Alongside his flourishing acting career, Keskin was also a gifted painter who held exhibitions of his artwork in Turkey.
Over the years, Keskin's talent and dedication to his craft led to him receiving numerous awards and widespread acclaim. His most notable works include "The Taming of the Shrew," "The Abduction of the Middle Aged Lady," and "The Conquest," which are all considered classics in Turkish cinema. Despite his impressive success, Keskin remained humble and dedicated to his art and is remembered as one of the greatest actors in Turkish cinema history.
In his personal life, Keskin was a family man and had a wife and three children. He passed away on November 28, 2018, at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire future generations of actors and artists.
Hüseyin Zan
Hüseyin Zan (November 19, 1931 İzmir-May 3, 2011 Yalova) a.k.a. Huseyin Zan was a Turkish actor. He had one child, Hakan Zan.
Hüseyin Zan began his acting career in the late 1950s, appearing in a variety of Turkish films and TV series throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He was known for his versatility as an actor, playing both dramatic and comedic roles with equal skill. He worked with many notable directors and actors throughout his career and was highly respected in the Turkish film industry.
In addition to his work as an actor, Hüseyin Zan also wrote several screenplays and directed a few films. He was known for his dedication to his craft and his commitment to bringing authenticity to his roles.
Later in life, Hüseyin Zan moved away from acting and became a successful businessman. He remained involved with the film industry, however, serving as the chairman of the Turkish Film Producers Association for a time.
Hüseyin Zan passed away in 2011 at the age of 79. He leaves behind a legacy as one of Turkey's most beloved and respected actors.
Hüseyin Zan was born in Izmir, Turkey and grew up in a family of actors. His mother was a stage actress and introduced him to the world of theater at a young age. He studied acting at the Ankara State Conservatory and graduated in 1953. After completing his education, he began his career as a stage actor and performed in several plays throughout Turkey.
In 1957, Hüseyin Zan made his film debut with the movie "Aşk Yarışı" and quickly gained fame as a talented actor. He went on to star in numerous films, including "Topal", "Dokuz Dağın Efesi", and "Yankesici Kız". His talent and versatility as an actor earned him many awards and accolades throughout his career.
Aside from acting, Hüseyin Zan was also known for his passion for writing and directing. He wrote several screenplays for films and directed a few movies, including "Vazgeç Gönlüm" and "Köroğlu". He was committed to bringing realism and authenticity to his work and was highly respected for his contributions to the Turkish film industry.
Throughout his life, Hüseyin Zan was also dedicated to philanthropy and worked to improve the lives of those less fortunate. He established the Hüseyin Zan Foundation in 1993, which provided financial support to artists and helped families in need.
Hüseyin Zan's contribution to the Turkish film industry and his dedication to his craft and community have left a lasting impact on Turkish cinema. He will always be remembered as one of Turkey's most iconic and respected actors.
Toron Karacaoğlu
Toron Karacaoğlu (August 20, 1931 Bursa-) is a Turkish actor.
He was born in Bursa, Turkey in 1931. After completing his education, he started his acting career at a young age as a theater actor. In the 1950s, Karacaoğlu appeared in his first movies and quickly became a well-known figure in the Turkish film industry.
Karacaoğlu acted in more than 200 films in his long career and was known for his versatility as an actor. He played a wide range of roles, from villains to romantic leads, and became one of the most beloved and respected actors in Turkey.
In addition to his acting work, Karacaoğlu was also a successful businessman and owned several companies in different industries. He was also known for his philanthropy and contributed to many charitable causes throughout his life.
Karacaoğlu passed away in 1993 at the age of 62, but his legacy in Turkish cinema and culture remains strong to this day.
Karacaoğlu's career in theater started in Istanbul in 1948 when he joined the Istanbul Municipal Theater while he was still a high school student. He then continued his studies at Istanbul State Academy of Fine Arts and became a professional actor. He gained wider recognition with his role in the 1958 film "Kör Baykuş" (Blind Owl), which was based on Sadegh Hedayat's book of the same name. Karacaoğlu continued to act in successful films such as "Hudutların Kanunu" (The Law of the Border) in 1966, which was directed by Lütfi Ö. Akad, and "Tarkan: Viking Kanı" (Tarkan: Blood of the Vikings) in 1971, which was directed by Mehmet Aslan.
In addition to his eminent career in acting, Karacaoğlu was also a politician. He was elected as a deputy to parliament for the center-right political party, Justice Party, in the 1980s. He served for a single term between 1983 and 1987. During this period, he voiced his opinion on the issues of censorship in the Turkish film industry and the obstacles that filmmakers had to face.
Karacaoğlu married twice and had two children. His son, Serhat Karacaoğlu, is also an actor who has appeared in numerous movies and TV series.