Legendary Turkish cinema star Filiz Akin passes away at 82
Photo collage of Filiz Akin's photos. (Photo collage by Ege Saati)
One of the most beloved figures of Turkish cinema, Filiz Akin, has passed away at the age of 82. Akin, who had been battling health issues for some time, left behind a legacy that shaped the golden era of Yesilcam. Her passing has deeply saddened the artistic community and her devoted fans.
Tributes pour in for iconic actress
The Ministry of Health confirmed Akin’s passing through an official statement on social media. “Filiz Akin, one of the most distinguished names in Turkish cinema, has passed away while receiving treatment at the hospital. She left an unforgettable mark on the history of cinema. We extend our condolences to her family, loved ones, and the artistic community,” the statement read.
Details regarding her funeral will be announced in the coming days.
Who was Filiz Akin?
Born on Jan. 2, 1943, in Ankara, Filiz Akin’s real name was Suna Akin. She received her education at Ankara College and the faculty of language, history, and geography.
Her cinematic journey began in 1962 when she won the prestigious artist competition, paving the way for her debut in “Akasyalar Acarken.”
Graceful blonde of Yesilcam
From the late 1960s to the 1970s, Akin was one of the most sought-after actresses in Turkish cinema. She shared the screen with legendary actors such as Tarik Akan, Cuneyt Arkin, Kadir Inanir, and Ediz Hun.
Known for her elegance, modern appearance, and intellectual aura, she became an icon of sophistication, often referred to as “the blonde-haired lady of Turkish cinema.”
An unforgettable cinematic legacy
Akin starred in numerous classics, including “Ankara Ekspresi,” “Utanc,” “Tatli Dillim,” “Yalanci Yarim,” “Daglar Daglar,” “Kader Baglayinca,” and “Istanbul Tatili.” In 1970, she won the Best Actress award at the Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival for her performance in “Ankara Ekspresi.”
As one of Yesilcam’s “four-leaf clovers,” she stood alongside Turkan Soray, Hulya Kocyigit, and Fatma Girik as one of the most influential female figures in Turkish cinema.
Beyond cinema: A life of influence
After stepping away from the silver screen, Akin turned toward television, hosting programs, writing columns, and publishing books that shared her personal experiences. Her time in Paris and Switzerland broadened her cultural horizons, enriching her public persona.
In the 2000s, she was diagnosed with cancer, a battle she fought and eventually won. Her resilience during this period turned her into a symbol of hope and strength for many.
