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Gezi Park case: ‘Magnificent Century’ star Halit Ergenc probed for false testimony

Halit Ergenc starred as Sultan Suleiman I in the hit series "Magnificent Century" Halit Ergenc starred as Sultan Suleiman I in the hit series "Magnificent Century" in 2011 until 2014. (Photo via IMDb)
By Newsroom
Jan 28, 2025 8:55 AM

Halit Ergenc, the acclaimed lead actor of the globally popular Turkish series “Magnificent Century,” is now facing legal scrutiny in Türkiye due to his alleged involvement in the 2013 Gezi Park protests.

The actor, who portrayed Sultan Suleiman I in the historical drama, has been accused of “false testimony” in connection with an ongoing investigation.

Investigation deepens into celebrity manager Ayse Barim

The case stems from an inquiry into well-known talent manager Ayse Barim, who has been accused of “monopolization” within the entertainment industry.

The probe has expanded to include allegations that Barim encouraged several actors to participate in the Gezi Park protests, which were one of the most significant civil uprisings in modern Turkish history.

As part of the investigation, Barim was detained and later referred to court with a request for formal arrest.

Gezi Park case: 'Magnificent Century' star Halit Ergenc probed for false testimony
Prominent talent manager Ayse Barim, whose agency ID Communication is at the center of monopolization allegations shaking Türkiye’s entertainment industry, January 2024. (Photo via X)

Prominent actors called to testify

Several high-profile actors, including Halit Ergenc, Berguzar Korel, Dolunay Soysert, Riza Kocaoglu, Mehmet Gunsur, and Nehir Erdogan, appeared at the Istanbul Courthouse in Caglayan to give their testimonies as witnesses.

However, a surprising development followed for Ergenc and Kocaoglu, as authorities launched a new investigation against them for allegedly providing false statements during their testimonies.

‘False testimony’ charges against Ergenc and Kocaoglu

Prosecutors have now initiated legal proceedings against both Halit Ergenc and Riza Kocaoglu, citing “false testimony” in relation to the ongoing Gezi Park investigations.

Both actors were among the most vocal supporters of the 2013 protests, which initially began as a demonstration against urban development but evolved into a nationwide movement.

Last Updated:  Jan 28, 2025 8:55 AM