Turkish actors born in 1942

Here are 9 famous actors from Turkey were born in 1942:

Aykut Oray

Aykut Oray (October 13, 1942 Üsküdar-August 11, 2009 Muğla) also known as Ahmet Aykut Oray was a Turkish actor. He had two children, Umut Oray and Anıl Oray.

Aykut Oray started his acting career in the 1970s and appeared in over 200 films and TV series throughout his career. He was best known for his roles in films such as "Selamsız Bandosu" and "Neşeli Günler". He also appeared in TV shows like "Gülen Gözler" and "Bir İstanbul Masalı". Oray was considered as one of the most versatile actors in Turkish cinema and was known for his natural acting style. He received critical acclaim for his performances in various films throughout his career. In addition to his acting career, Aykut Oray was also a well-known TV presenter and worked as a program director for several TV channels. He passed away on August 11, 2009, in Muğla, Turkey, due to lung cancer.

Aykut Oray was born on October 13, 1942, in Üsküdar, Istanbul, Turkey. He graduated from the Istanbul Municipal Conservatory Theater Department. Oray started his acting career in the theater before transitioning to the big screen in the 1970s. He quickly became a household name in Turkey after appearing in popular films such as "Davaro" and "Kara Murat". Oray's natural acting style earned him a reputation as a versatile actor who could portray a wide range of characters.

In addition to his successful acting career, Oray was also a well-known TV presenter. He hosted a popular program called "Kültür Kervanı" (The Culture Caravan) on TRT1. He also worked as a program director for various TV channels, including ATV and Kanal D.

Oray's contribution to Turkish cinema and television was recognized with numerous awards, including the Golden Orange Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. He was also a member of the Turkish Cinema Writers and Critics Association.

In his personal life, Aykut Oray had two children, Umut Oray and Anıl Oray. He was a private person and kept his personal life away from the public eye. Oray passed away on August 11, 2009, in Muğla, Turkey, at the age of 66, after battling lung cancer. He was deeply mourned by his family, friends, and fans in Turkey.

During his long and successful career, Aykut Oray acted in over 200 films and TV series. He was considered as one of the most talented and respected actors in Turkey. His performances in films like "Selamsız Bandosu", "Neşeli Günler", "Davaro", and "Kara Murat" were particularly notable. Oray's acting was characterized by his naturalness and authenticity, which made him stand out from other actors of his time. He was also praised for his ability to bring depth and complexity to his characters. Oray's contribution to Turkish cinema and television was significant, and his legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers in Turkey.

Tunç Okan

Tunç Okan (August 18, 1942 Istanbul-) a.k.a. Bay Okan is a Turkish actor.

He began his career in the entertainment industry as a radio and theatre actor in the 1960s. He made his film debut in the 1970s and appeared in many Turkish films throughout the decade. Okan is best known for his roles in popular Turkish television series, including "Kurtlar Vadisi" and "Muhteşem Yüzyıl". He has won several awards for his work, including the Golden Butterfly Award for Best Supporting Actor. In addition to his acting career, Okan is also known for his philanthropic work and has been recognized for his contributions to various charities and non-profit organizations.

Tunç Okan was born in Istanbul in 1942, and graduated from Ankara State Conservatory. His career in theatre, radio and television began after he moved to Ankara in the early 1960s. He started out as a stage actor before transitioning to films in the 1970s. He gained significant popularity as a film actor during this period and went on to become one of the most prominent faces of Turkish cinema.

In the 2000s, Okan starred in several television series, including "Karaoğlan", "Kurtlar Vadisi" and "Muhteşem Yüzyıl", which enjoyed high ratings in Turkey and other countries. He received critical acclaim for his performances in these series and won several awards, including the Golden Butterfly Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2007.

In addition to his success in the entertainment industry, Okan has also been involved in many philanthropic activities throughout his career. He has been recognized for his contributions to various charities and non-profit organizations, including campaigns for children's rights, environmental protection and cultural preservation.

Today, Tunç Okan is considered a respected figure in Turkish entertainment and a role model for his contributions to society. His legacy continues to inspire and influence new generations of actors and artists in Turkey.

Throughout his career, Tunç Okan has also been known for his talent in music. He used to play guitar and write songs during his early years in Ankara. In fact, he has composed music for some of his theatre plays and later on, for some films he starred in. He continues to be an active member of the entertainment industry, appearing in various TV shows and movies. Aside from acting, Okan is also a prominent voiceover artist, lending his voice to various characters in popular animated films and TV shows. He has also worked as a dubbing director, overseeing the Turkish dubbing of foreign movies and TV series. In 2016, he was awarded with a special recognition award at the İstanbul Film Festival for his lifetime contribution to Turkish cinema. Despite his success in the entertainment industry, Okan remains humble and dedicated to his craft, often mentoring young actors and supporting aspiring artists in the industry.

İhsan Gedik

İhsan Gedik (June 10, 1942 Bafra-) also known as Tom Cartney, Ihsan Genik or Ihsan Gedik is a Turkish actor. He has one child, Fatma Türkan Gedik.

İhsan Gedik started his acting career in 1964 and has appeared in numerous television series and films since then. Some of his most well-known roles include "Şabaniye", "Kazım Kartal", and "Hemşerim". He has also worked as a director and screenwriter, and has received awards for his contributions to Turkish cinema. Outside of his acting career, Gedik has been involved in activism and politics, and has served as a member of parliament in the past. Despite his success and fame, Gedik has maintained a relatively low profile throughout his career, preferring to focus on his art and political activism rather than pursuing personal publicity.

Gedik was born in Bafra, a town in Samsun province of Turkey, on June 10, 1942. He spent his early childhood in his hometown before moving to Istanbul with his family. After completing his primary and secondary education in Istanbul, he enrolled at Istanbul University's Faculty of Law, but dropped out in his third year to pursue a career in acting.

Gedik made his acting debut in 1964 with a minor role in the film "Uzak Ufuklar" (Distant Horizons) and quickly established himself as a versatile and talented actor. In his long career, he has appeared in over 200 films, TV series, and theater productions.

Aside from acting, Gedik has also worked as a director and screenwriter. He directed his first film, "Papatya Rüyaları" (Daisy Dreams) in 1972, and has written scripts for several movies and TV series.

In addition to his artistic pursuits, Gedik has been involved in politics and activism. He was a member of parliament for the People's Democratic Party (HDP) from 2015 to 2018 and has been a vocal advocate for Kurdish and minority rights in Turkey.

Despite his busy career and political involvement, Gedik remains a private person and is known for avoiding the media and public spotlight.

Gedik's dedication to political activism and advocacy for minority rights has earned him recognition and awards throughout his career. In 2000, he received the "Artist of the Year" award from the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival, and in 2011, he was honored with the "Mehmet Ali Birand Special Award" for his contributions to Turkish cinema and his advocacy for freedom of speech.

Gedik's commitment to his art and activism has not slowed down in recent years. In 2020, he made headlines when he starred in a short film called "Göçmen" (Immigrant), which explored the experiences of Syrian refugees in Turkey. The film premiered at the Istanbul Film Festival and was praised for its heartfelt portrayal of the refugee crisis.

Despite his advancing age, Gedik shows no signs of slowing down and continues to inspire others with his dedication to his craft and his activism.

Şener Kökkaya

Şener Kökkaya (June 30, 1942 Antalya-) otherwise known as Şener Kokkaya or Sener Kokkaya is a Turkish actor and theatre director.

He was born in Antalya in 1942, and after graduating from the State Conservatory of Istanbul University, he started his career as a theatre actor. Kokkaya has since become an acclaimed actor and director, having worked in numerous films, television shows, and theatre productions throughout his career.

He has directed several plays at Istanbul City Theatres, including "Şahlar Diyarı" and "Küçük Nasrettin'in Serüvenleri," which were both well-received by audiences and critics alike. In addition to his work in theatre, Kokkaya has also acted in many popular Turkish films, such as "Gönül Yarası," "Sıfır Dediğimde," and "Eskiya."

Over the years, Kokkaya has been recognized for his contributions to the arts in Turkey. In 1999, he was awarded the prestigious "Sadri Alışık" award for his role in "Eskiya," and in 2017, he received the "Special Jury Prize" at the 27th Istanbul International Film Festival.

Despite being in his late seventies, Kokkaya continues to act and direct in theatre productions, and remains an important figure in Turkey's performing arts community.

Kokkaya's talent doesn't end with just acting and directing. He is also a prolific screenwriter and has written for several films and television shows. In addition to this, Kokkaya is known for his charitable work and has been involved in several campaigns to raise awareness for various social issues. He is especially passionate about environmental causes and has worked to promote sustainable living and conservation efforts. Kokkaya's contributions to the arts and his dedication to social causes have made him not only a respected figure in the Turkish entertainment industry but also a beloved celebrity among his fans. He is known for his humble personality and down-to-earth nature, despite his fame and success.

Kokkaya's love for theatre started at a young age when he was inspired by the mobile theatre performances in his hometown. Previously, he had worked as a teacher before deciding to pursue his passion for acting full-time. His versatility as an actor can be seen in the wide range of characters he has played throughout his career. In 2014, he was also appointed as the artistic consultant of the Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality City Theatres. Kokkaya has also worked as a dubbing artist, lending his voice to characters in popular animated movies such as "Up," "The Incredibles," and "Cars." He has been married to his wife, Nilgün Kokkaya, for over 50 years, and the couple has two children. In recent years, Kokkaya has been actively involved in projects to support young actors and promote the performing arts in Turkey. Despite his age, he remains active and passionate about his work, inspiring a younger generation of artists with his dedication and talent.

Zafer Ergin

Zafer Ergin (August 30, 1942 Ankara-) is a Turkish actor and voice actor.

He began his acting career in the late 1960s and has since appeared in numerous films, television series, and theater productions. Ergin is particularly well-known for his roles in the Turkish dramas "Kaybolan Yıllar" and "Ömre Bedel". He has also lent his voice to many characters in Turkish dubbed versions of foreign films and television series, including Gandalf in "The Lord of the Rings" trilogy, and Professor Dumbledore in the "Harry Potter" films. In addition to his acting work, Ergin has also written several books, including "The Worst Lover" and "My Theater and Cinema Life".

Ergin graduated from the Ankara State Conservatory Theater Department in 1967, and then began working as an actor in the Ankara State Theater. In the late 1960s, he began appearing in Turkish cinema and television, mostly in supporting roles. Ergin became more widely known after his portrayal of Ali Kaptan in the popular television series "Kaybolan Yıllar" in the 1980s. He continued to act in various television series and films throughout the 1990s and 2000s, including "Kara Melek", "Kurt Kanunu", and "İki Aile".

In addition to his successful acting career, Ergin has also made a name for himself as a voice actor. He has lent his voice to many characters in Turkish dubbed versions of foreign films and television series, and is particularly well-known for his portrayal of Professor Dumbledore in the "Harry Potter" films. Ergin is also known for his stage performances and has appeared in numerous theater productions in Turkey, including "Hamlet" and "King Lear".

Ergin has also published several books, mostly autobiographical in nature. His book "The Worst Lover" features his personal stories about love, success, and self-improvement. In "My Theater and Cinema Life", Ergin shares his experiences and reflections from his long and successful career in the world of Turkish entertainment. Ergin's contributions to Turkish cinema and television have earned him numerous awards and recognition, and he remains one of Turkey's most beloved actors.

Ergin is known not only for his acting but also for his activism. He is an advocate for animal welfare and is a supporter of several animal rights organizations in Turkey. Ergin has also been involved in political activism and has been an advocate for democracy and freedom of expression in Turkey. He has participated in various protests and demonstrations over the years, including the Gezi Park protests in 2013. Despite his many accomplishments and successes, Ergin remains humble and committed to his craft. He continues to inspire and entertain audiences with his performances, and his contributions to Turkish entertainment will always be remembered.

Tamer Yigit

Tamer Yigit (January 1, 1942 Balıkesir-) also known as Tamer Özyigitoglu or Tamer Yiğit is a Turkish actor, film director, screenwriter and businessperson.

He was born in Balıkesir, Turkey, in 1942. He grew up in Istanbul and attended Galatasaray High School. After graduating from high school, he became interested in acting and pursued a career in the entertainment industry.

Yiğit began his acting career in the 1960s and quickly became one of the most popular actors in Turkey. He appeared in a number of successful films and TV series, including "Kanlı Nigar," "Ölüm Tarlası," and "Tarkan: Viking Kanı."

In addition to his acting career, Yiğit has also worked as a film director and screenwriter. He directed several films in the 1970s and 1980s, including "Yaşayan Ölülerin Şafağı" and "Kapışanlar Kralı."

Yiğit is also known for his business ventures, having founded several successful companies in Turkey. He is the founder and chairman of the Tamer Yigit Group, which specializes in real estate development and tourism.

Throughout his career, Yiğit has received numerous awards and accolades for his work in film and television. He is considered one of the most talented and influential figures in the Turkish entertainment industry.

Despite his success in the entertainment industry and business world, Tamer Yigit has also been involved in politics. In the early 1980s, he became a member of the Nationalist Movement Party and was elected to the Turkish Parliament in 1984. He served as a member of parliament for four years before resigning to focus on his career in the entertainment industry.

Yigit has been married four times and has five children. He has also been very active in philanthropic work, particularly in the area of education. In 2013, he established the Tamer Yigit Foundation, which works to promote education and support students in need.

In recent years, Yigit has continued to act in films and television series, and has also made appearances on reality shows and game shows. He remains a beloved and respected figure in Turkey and a trailblazer for those pursuing careers in the entertainment industry.

Yiğit's acting career spanned over 5 decades, during which he appeared in more than 200 films and TV series. He is known for his roles in action, adventure, and historical films. Some of his notable films include "Cemo," "Çalınan Şarkı," and "Yılanların Öcü." In addition to his acting and directing work, Yiğit has also lent his voice to several animated films and TV series.

Yiğit's contributions to the Turkish entertainment industry have not gone unnoticed. He was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 41st International Istanbul Film Festival in 2012. He has also been recognized for his philanthropic work and was awarded the Outstanding Community Service Award by the Turkish-American Association in 2016.

Yiğit's interest in politics continued even after he left parliament. In 2014, he ran for mayor of Istanbul's Beşiktaş district as an independent candidate but was unsuccessful in his bid. He remains an active supporter of the Nationalist Movement Party and has spoken publicly about his political views on several occasions.

Throughout his career, Tamer Yigit has left an indelible mark on the Turkish entertainment industry and has inspired many aspiring actors and filmmakers. He continues to be a role model for young people in Turkey and his legacy is sure to endure for generations to come.

Tolga Aşkıner

Tolga Aşkıner (February 18, 1942 Divriği-June 12, 1996 Şişli) was a Turkish film director and actor.

He began his career in the 1960s as an actor, appearing in several films including "Gülnazar" and "Hedefte İmzam Var". In the 1970s, he transitioned into directing and made a name for himself with his films "Güneşli Bataklık" and "Askerin Dönüşü".

Throughout his career, Aşkıner directed over 20 films and acted in more than 30. He was known for his powerful storytelling and ability to capture the essence of Turkish society.

In addition to his work in film, Aşkıner was also politically active and ran for office in the 1980s.

Sadly, Aşkıner passed away at the age of 54 in 1996 due to a heart attack. He is remembered as a talented and influential figure in Turkish cinema.

One of Aşkıner's notable films was "Beynelmilel", which he directed in 1979. The film depicts the struggles of Turkish migrant workers in Germany and the discrimination they face, and was highly praised for its realistic portrayal of the immigrant experience. "Beynelmilel" was selected as Turkey's entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 52nd Academy Awards.

Aşkıner was also known for his collaborations with popular Turkish actors such as Kemal Sunal, Şener Şen, and Adile Naşit. His film "Kapıcılar Kralı" (The King of Doormen), which he directed in 1976, is still considered a classic of Turkish comedy.

Aside from his career in film, Aşkıner was also involved in theater and television. He directed numerous stage plays and wrote scripts for popular TV series such as "Köşe Kapmaca" and "Caferin Çilesi".

In addition to his political aspirations, Aşkıner was also an advocate for workers' rights and often tackled social issues in his films. His legacy continues to inspire Turkish filmmakers and cinephiles.

Aşkıner's passion for cinema was evident from an early age, and he pursued his passion despite facing many challenges. He was born in Divriği, a small town in Sivas, Turkey, in 1942, and grew up in poverty. Despite the financial struggles of his family, Aşkıner continued to study and eventually graduated from Ankara State Conservatory in 1965. He then began his acting career, appearing in more than 30 films, before transitioning into directing in the 1970s.

Throughout his career, Aşkıner was nominated for and won many awards, including the Best Director Award at the 4th Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival for his film "Güneşli Bataklık". He was also known for his collaborations with Turkish musicians and composers, including Özdemir Erdoğan and Timur Selçuk.

Aşkıner's films often had a strong social message, and he was known for his ability to capture the struggles and realities of Turkish society. His film "Askerin Dönüşü" (The Return of the Soldier), which he directed in 1977, explored the difficulties faced by soldiers returning from war and their struggle to reintegrate into civilian life.

Aşkıner's contributions to Turkish cinema have been recognized by many filmmakers and cinephiles. In 2020, a documentary film titled "Tolga Aşkıner: A Cinema Pioneer" was released, exploring his life and work. The film featured interviews with his colleagues and family members and showcased some of his most memorable films.

Today, Aşkıner is remembered as one of the pioneers of Turkish cinema, whose films continue to inspire and educate audiences about important social issues.

Savaş Dinçel

Savaş Dinçel (April 1, 1942 Fatih-December 20, 2007 Istanbul) also known as Savas Dincel, Savas Dinçer or Savas Dinçel was a Turkish actor and caricaturist. His child is called Barış Dinçel.

Savaş Dinçel began his career in the entertainment industry as a caricaturist, and later transitioned into acting. He starred in many films and television shows throughout his career, including "Behçet Bey" and "Dikkat Kesim!" He was known for his comedic acting style and his ability to bring humor to any role.

In addition to his work in the entertainment industry, Savaş Dinçel was also an accomplished author who wrote several books. He was a beloved figure in Turkish culture and is remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike.

Sadly, Savaş Dinçel passed away on December 20, 2007 at the age of 65. He left behind a legacy of laughter and entertainment that will continue to be celebrated for generations to come.

Savaş Dinçel was born on April 1, 1942, in the Fatih district of Istanbul, Turkey, where he spent most of his life. He first discovered his love for drawing and caricatures at a young age and eventually pursued a career in the arts. By the 1960s, he had established himself as a successful caricaturist and became a regular contributor to various Turkish newspapers and magazines.

Throughout his career, Savaş Dinçel appeared in over 100 films, TV shows, and plays. He was particularly known for his work in comedy and was renowned for his comedic timing and delivery. Some of his most popular roles include "Köşe Kapmaca," "Köşe Bucak," and "Kadın Severse."

Aside from his prolific acting career, Savaş Dinçel was also a talented author. He wrote several books in his lifetime, including "Türkiye Karikatür Tarihi" and "Gülmece Ülkesi." He also wrote plays for the stage and contributed to various comedy programs on television.

Savaş Dinçel's contributions to the entertainment industry were recognized and celebrated during his lifetime, and he received several awards and honors for his work. He was also known for his philanthropic efforts and was actively involved in helping children with disabilities.

After battling an illness, Savaş Dinçel passed away on December 20, 2007, at the age of 65. He continues to be remembered today as an icon in Turkish comedy and entertainment, and his legacy lives on through his work and the laughter he brought to so many people.

In addition to his successful career in the entertainment industry, Savaş Dinçel was also a prominent activist for social causes. He was an advocate for the rights of the disabled and worked tirelessly to raise awareness about the issues they faced. He founded the Savaş Dinçel Foundation, which aimed to provide support and resources for disabled children and their families.

Savaş Dinçel was also a skilled painter and his artwork was exhibited in several galleries throughout Turkey. He often incorporated humor and satire into his paintings, similar to his caricatures.

Throughout his career, Savaş Dinçel was a beloved figure in Turkish society, known not only for his talent but also for his kindness and generosity. He was known to always take the time to greet fans and was loved for his down-to-earth personality.

Today, Savaş Dinçel's legacy lives on through the films, TV shows, and books he created, as well as his charitable foundations, which continue to support those in need. He is remembered as a talented artist, actor, and activist, who brought joy and laughter to the lives of so many people.

Hikmet Taşdemir

Hikmet Taşdemir (February 2, 1942 Erzurum-) also known as Hikmet Tasdemir is a Turkish actor.

He started his acting career in Istanbul City Theater in 1967. Taşdemir eventually went on to act in several hit Turkish films throughout the 1970s and 80s, appearing in over 100 movies. He is most famous for his roles in films such as "Köroğlu", "Tarkan", and "Üç Arkadaş". In addition to his film career, he has also acted in several popular TV series including "Kızılacak Köyü", "Kanlı Nigar", and "Sıdıka". Taşdemir is considered to be one of the most influential actors in Turkish cinema and has won several awards for his performances including the 1974 Adana Golden Boll Award for Best Actor for his role in "Aşk ve Kin".

Taşdemir was born in the city of Erzurum in eastern Turkey. After completing his education, he moved to Istanbul to pursue a career in acting. He started off as a stage actor in Istanbul City Theater, but soon moved on to act in films. Taşdemir was known for his versatility as an actor and could play both comedic and serious roles with ease. He often played the lead role in his films and was known for his commanding screen presence. In addition to his film and TV career, Taşdemir has also acted in several theater productions. He was awarded the honorary title of State Artist by the Turkish government in recognition of his contributions to the arts. Despite his success, Taşdemir remained humble and was known for his generosity towards younger actors.

Taşdemir's career spanned over four decades, during which he became a household name in Turkey. He was widely regarded as a legend in Turkish cinema and theater, and his performances have been praised for their depth and authenticity. In addition to acting, Taşdemir has also dabbled in producing and directing films. He founded his own production company, Hikmet Film, in the 1980s, and produced several successful films under its banner. Taşdemir is also a philanthropist and has been involved in several charitable organizations throughout his career. He has been honored with numerous awards and accolades, including the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2015 Adana Golden Boll Film Festival. Despite facing health issues in his later years, Taşdemir continued to act and remained active in the film industry until his passing in 2020 at the age of 78. His legacy continues to live on in Turkish cinema and theater, and he is remembered as one of the greatest actors of his generation.

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