The upcoming Turkish drama Halef, set to air on Show TV, continues to build excitement with its expanding star-studded cast and original storyline. One of the most talked-about developments is the casting of rising star Serra Arıtürk as the female lead opposite Akın Akınözü, who will portray the character Timur.
Akın Akınözü’s New Leading Lady Confirmed
After much speculation, producers have confirmed that Serra Arıtürk will take on the role of Reyhan, the emotional and narrative center of Halef. This marks the first time Arıtürk and Akınözü will share the screen. The pairing has already generated widespread buzz on social media and among fans of Turkish drama.
Known for her acclaimed performances in previous roles, Arıtürk brings a confident and nuanced acting style. Many expect her to add significant depth to the series. Her on-screen chemistry with Akınözü is already a major point of interest, with early speculation suggesting the duo could become one of the most compelling couples of the upcoming season.
A Major Production with a Powerful Cast
Produced by Faro Company and directed by Sinan Öztürk, Halef is positioned as one of Show TV’s most ambitious projects of the year. The original script, written by Tunahan Kurt, follows the dramatic rise of the Karslı family, who move from Kars to Istanbul and begin to assert power through control of the Esenler Bus Terminal.
The story explores themes of power, loyalty, vengeance, family collapse, and internal conflict, offering a layered, emotionally charged drama experience.
The cast includes some of Turkey’s most respected names in television:
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Ercan Kesal as Zülfikar
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Erkan Kolçak Köstendil
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Derya Karadaş
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Tansu Biçer
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Hazal Türesan
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Bora Akkaş
Serra Arıtürk’s Rising Career
Serra Arıtürk’s casting marks a major step forward in her career. After building a strong reputation through previous roles, her transition to a lead role in a high-profile drama like Halef places her firmly among the most promising young talents in Turkish television.
Her character, Reyhan, is expected to be central to the narrative, particularly in her dynamic with Timur (played by Akınözü), a man torn between family duty, ambition, and emotional turmoil.
Akın Akınözü’s Return to Primetime
Akın Akınözü, known for standout roles in series like Hercai, brings intensity and charisma to the screen. In Halef, his character Timur will embody themes of power, leadership, and vulnerability—a role aligned with Akınözü’s strength in portraying complex emotional states.
His new partnership with Arıtürk is being viewed as a fresh dynamic that could shape the entire tone of the series.
A Familiar Yet Unique Premise
Some viewers and critics have pointed out similarities between Halef and the award-winning American series Succession, especially regarding the power struggles within a wealthy family. However, Halef is firmly rooted in Turkish culture and society, offering its own distinct narrative and social commentary.
Production Set to Begin
Filming for Halef is in its final stages of preparation and is scheduled to begin soon. Industry insiders suggest Show TV is positioning Halef as its flagship drama for the new season.
The combination of an original plot, a strong production team, and a high-profile cast has placed Halef among the most anticipated Turkish dramas of 2025.
Will Halef meet expectations and redefine Turkish drama this season?
Will Serra Arıtürk and Akın Akınözü become the next great on-screen duo?
Audiences will find out soon as Halef makes its debut on Show TV.