Famous Turkish theater director, actor Genco Erkal bids farewell at 86

Renowned Turkish actor and theater director Genco Erkal has died at the age of 86 after battling leukemia.

His final social media post, made just hours before his death, has captured the hearts of many.

In a poignant message posted on his X account, Erkal wrote, “Goodbye my friends, goodbye. I carry you in my soul, in the depths of my soul. I carry my struggle in my mind. Goodbye my friends, goodbye… Like the birds in the pictures, lined up on the beach, don’t wave a handkerchief at me… Farewell without a single syllable.” Followers, moved by the post, urged their loved ones to check on him.

Who was Genco Erkal?

Genco Erkal, born on March 28, 1938, in Istanbul, had a career that spanned over six decades. He graduated from Robert College in 1957, where his passion for theater took root.

Despite his parents’ wishes for him to pursue a different career, Erkal obtained a degree in psychology from Istanbul University but remained devoted to the stage.

Erkal began his theater journey with amateur performances at Robert College. He made his professional debut with the Kenter Theater and later worked with several prestigious theater groups. In 1969, he co-founded Dostlar Theater, which became a cornerstone of Turkish theater.

Throughout his career, Erkal directed and performed in plays by international and Turkish writers, including Gorki, Brecht, Sartre, Havel, and Nazim Hikmet. His performances earned him numerous awards. He was celebrated for his roles in plays such as “The Good Soldier Schweik,” “Memoirs of a Madman,” and “Galileo.”

In the autobiographical film “Genco: A Life Dedicated to Theater,” Erkal stated, “Every moment on stage was a joy for me and I enjoyed it as if I would never be able to do it again. My time on this earth passed with this joy and I hope it continues the same way because my journey continues.” He often credited his time at Robert College for solidifying his passion for theater.

Genco Erkal’s ventures went beyond theater

Erkal’s influence extended beyond the theater. He starred in acclaimed films like “At,” “Faize Hucum,” and “A Season in Hakkari,” winning the Golden Orange Award for Best Actor twice. He also directed and acted in television adaptations of notable plays, including “Legend of Ali of Keshan.”

In addition to his contributions to Turkish theater, Erkal performed internationally. He acted in French productions at festivals in Paris and Avignon since 1993, further solidifying his global presence.

Rest in peace, Genco Erkal.