Turkish streaming platform removes ‘El Turco’ after Can Yaman’s Italy comments
Thumbnail from TV series El Turco, starring Can Yaman, accessed on April 24, 2025. (Photo via IMDB)
Turkish streaming platform GAIN has pulled the historical drama series “El Turco” from its service following controversial statements made by the show’s star, Can Yaman, during a recent interview abroad.
The decision came after Yaman, who has been living in Italy, reportedly chose Italy over Türkiye when asked to pick between the two countries. His response triggered backlash on social media from Turkish viewers.
In its official statement, the streaming platform explained, “Recently, some statements made by Can Yaman, an actor in our series ‘El Turco,’ during an interview abroad have been subject to various interpretations and brought about certain sensitivities.
As GAIN, we would like to emphasize that we approach all opinions and criticisms with sincerity and always value the sensitivities of our nation.”
Turkish streaming platform cites values of conflict to remove ‘El Turco’
The platform further noted that while “El Turco” aimed to showcase “the influence, courage, and cultural richness of the Ottoman Empire in Europe,” they observed that public perception had shifted to a point that conflicted with the series’ fundamental approach and the channel’s values.
“Considering all these sensitivities, we have decided to remove the ‘El Turco’ series from our platform. This decision is a reflection of our responsible broadcasting approach and our commitment to preserving the trust relationship we have established with our people,” the statement continued.
The six-episode English-language drama features Yaman as Hasan Balaban, a 17th-century Ottoman soldier who was wounded during the Turkish army’s campaign to conquer Vienna in 1683. According to historical accounts, he ended up in the Italian Alpine village of Moena, where locals nicknamed him “El Turco.”
The series depicts how he led villagers in a revolt against unfair taxes, becoming a local hero.
International distribution of ‘El Turco’ continues despite Turkish removal
The international distribution of “El Turco” remains unaffected, with the show having already launched on various platforms, including Voyo in Romania, IVI in Russia, and Globoplay in Brazil, last month. It is also scheduled for release on Mediaset’s Canale 5 in Italy in April.
Produced by Türkiye’s Ay Yapim, the series features an international cast from nine different countries, including Will Kemp, Greta Ferro, and Veronica Ferres.
The Turkish streaming platform concluded its statement by affirming its commitment to continue “narrating the culture and history of these lands with a universal language” through respectful and inclusive productions.
