Turkish TV series, or “dizi,” have surged in popularity due to their diverse genres and captivating storytelling. From epic historical dramas to modern love stories and mysteries, Turkish dramas enthrall global audiences with their compelling narratives.
In this article, we have compiled a list of top 10 Turkish TV series that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you want heart-wrenching romance, adrenalin-pumping action, or thought-provoking historical dramas, there’s something in the list for everyone.
Top 10 Turkish TV Series
This list explores 10 exceptional Turkish dramas definitely worth watching.
1. Diriliş: Ertuğrul (Resurrection: Ertuğrul)
Diriliş: Ertuğrul, also known as Resurrection: Ertuğrul, is a Turkish historical fiction drama series that aired for five seasons between 2014 and 2019. The show centers around Ertuğrul Bey, played by Engin Altan Düzyatan, father of Osman I, the founder of the Ottoman Empire. Set in the 13th century, the series depicts Ertuğrul’s struggles as he leads his nomadic Kayı tribe in search of a homeland. Along the way, they face challenges from the Mongols and Romans, while Ertuğrul strives to establish a just and lasting legacy for his people.
2. Fatmagül’ün Suçu Ne? (What is Fatmagül’s fault?)
“Fatmagül’ün Suçu Ne? (What is Fatmagül’s Fault?)” is a Turkish drama series that aired for two seasons (80 episodes) between 2010 and 2012. Beren Saat portrays Fatmagül, a young woman brutally gang-raped. Societal pressure forces her to marry one of the attackers’ brothers, Selim Yaşaran (Engin Öztürk). The series follows Fatmagül’s fight for justice against her attackers while grappling with trauma and societal judgment. It explores themes of resilience, social stigma, and the pursuit of justice for victims of sexual assault.
3. Atiye (The Gift)
Atiye (The Gift) is a Turkish drama fantasy series on Netflix that ran for 3 seasons (24 episodes) between 2019 and 2021. Starring Beren Saat as Atiye, a disillusioned painter in Istanbul, the story takes an unexpected turn when she discovers a connection to an ancient archaeological site. As Atiye delves deeper, she uncovers universal secrets and is forced to confront her past, questioning everything she thought she knew. The series blends elements of mystery, drama, and fantasy.
4. Medcezir
Medcezir (Tide), a Turkish teen drama series, aired for 2 seasons (77 episodes) from 2013 to 2015. Starring Çağatay Ulusoy and Serenay Sarıkaya, the story centers on Yaman, a young man from a poor Istanbul neighborhood. His life takes a dramatic turn when he’s accepted into a prestigious college. There, he encounters the wealthy world of Mira, a society girl. Medcezir explores themes of class difference, love, and self-discovery as Yaman navigates his new life and his feelings for Mira.
5. Creature
Creature is a 2023 Turkish horror drama miniseries, consisting of one season. It’s a modern reimagining of Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, set in 19th century Istanbul. The series stars Erkan Kolçak Köstendil as İhsan, an ambitious scientist obsessed with creating life. After tragedy strikes, his pupil Ziya (Taner Ölmez) takes over the project, with horrifying consequences. Creature explores the ethical boundaries of science and the struggle between ambition and responsibility.
6. Ethos
Ethos, also known by its Turkish title “Bir Başkadır,” is a 2020 Turkish drama thriller series with one season (8 episodes) on Netflix. The show features an ensemble cast, including Öykü Karayel and Fatih Artman. Set in Istanbul, Ethos weaves together stories of characters from diverse social and economic backgrounds. As their paths unexpectedly cross, they grapple with societal divisions, personal struggles, and hidden desires. The series explores themes of identity, empathy, and the complexities of human connection in a polarized world.
7. Shahmaran
Shahmaran, a 2023 Turkish fantasy drama series on Netflix, has one season so far. Serenay Sarikaya stars as Sahsu, a woman who travels to Adana to confront her estranged grandfather. Unexpectedly, she stumbles upon a hidden community descended from Shahmaran, a mythical creature symbolizing love and wisdom. As an ancient prophecy unfolds, Sahsu’s destiny becomes intertwined with this mysterious group, leading her on a journey of self-discovery and forbidden love.
8. Terzi (The Tailor)
Terzi (The Tailor), a 2023 Turkish drama series on Netflix, follows the life of Peyami Dokumacı (Çağatay Ulusoy), a gifted young tailor who inherits his grandfather’s successful business. However, Peyami harbors a secret: his mentally ill father Mustafa (Olgun Şimşek), whom he must care for while keeping his condition hidden. The series unfolds as Peyami falls in love with Esvet (Şifanur Gül), a client seeking a wedding dress, but their connection creates tension with his best friend Dimitri (Salih Bademci), to whom Esvet is married. Terzi is a story of love, family secrets, and the complexities of loyalty, spanning one season so far.
9 Erkenci Kuş (Daydreamer)
Erkenci Kuş (Daydreamer) is a Turkish romantic comedy series that aired for one season (51 episodes) between 2018 and 2019. The story centers around Sanem Aydın (Demet Özdemir), a free-spirited young woman who dreams of becoming a writer. To avoid an arranged marriage, she takes a job at an advertising agency. There, she unexpectedly falls for her boss, the handsome and successful Can Divit (Can Yaman). Erkenci Kuş follows their journey as they navigate the challenges of love, career, and following their dreams, all amidst the fast-paced world of advertising.
10. As The Crow Flies
As The Crow Flies, a 2022 Turkish drama series on Netflix, follows the ambitious yet inexperienced Lâle (Biran Damla Yılmaz). Lâle maneuvers her way into a prestigious newsroom, working alongside the seasoned news anchor Aziz (İbrahim Çelikkol). However, her relentless pursuit of success exposes her to the dark side of ambition and the competitive world of broadcast news. The series, spanning three seasons, explores themes of media manipulation, ambition, and the complex power dynamics within the news industry.
These were our picks for the top 10 Turkish TV series everyone should watch. However, if you have another Turkish drama in mind, feel free to leave a comment below.
Read more: Top 10 Most Beautiful Turkish Actresses in 2024.