The Turkish series El Turco is making waves in Brazil after its recent launch, quickly becoming a favorite among viewers. The series debuted on Friday, March 21, 2025, and is set to air on Rede Globo during the Cine BBB slot on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. With its gripping narrative and a talented cast, it has taken the streaming platform Globoplay by storm, surpassing other popular shows.
Set in the 17th century, El Turco follows the story of Balaban Ağa, an Ottoman soldier portrayed by the charismatic Can Yaman. After being wounded in the Battle of Vienna in 1683, Balaban seeks refuge in the small village of Moena, located in northern Italy. The villagers, who save him, come to know him as El Turco. As he integrates into the community, Balaban becomes a central figure, driven by a strong sense of justice and a desire to protect the villagers from the oppressive local feudal lord.
In this historical drama, Balaban leads the villagers in a revolt against their oppressor, fighting for their rights and freedoms. The series effectively combines historical events with fictional elements, exploring themes of resistance, love, and cultural identity during a tumultuous period in European history. Balaban's journey is further complicated by a passionate yet forbidden romance with the enigmatic Glória, a woman shrouded in secrets. Their relationship serves as both a source of strength and a challenge to Balaban's convictions.
Can Yaman's portrayal of Balaban Ağa has resonated deeply with audiences, contributing to the series' rapid rise in popularity. The show features an impressive supporting cast, including Will Kemp, Greta Ferro, Sai Bennet, Kieran O'Reilly, Nigel Pilkington, Veronica Ferres, Magnus Samuelsson, Haluk Piyes, Slavko Sobin, David Nykl, and Madalena Aragão. The series is directed by Uluç Bayraktar, with the script penned by Kerem Deren and Çisil Hazal Tenim. Produced by Ay Yapim and distributed by MADD Entertainment, El Turco consists of six episodes, all of which are available for streaming on Globoplay.
The show's success comes at a time when its predecessor, the novela Mania de Você, struggled to maintain its viewership. Despite its initial popularity, Mania de Você has seen a decline, with El Turco capturing the attention of audiences and becoming the most-watched series on Globoplay, even eclipsing the comedy Tapas & Beijos. According to reports from F5, El Turco is only behind the reality show BBB 25 in overall viewership rankings.
Can Yaman, who is in Brazil for promotional events related to the series, has gained a significant following due to his previous roles in popular Turkish dramas. At just 34 years old, Yaman has been in the industry since 2014 and has garnered acclaim for his performances, including a Golden Butterfly award for Best Actor in a Romantic Comedy for his role in A Sonhadora. His charm and talent have captivated Brazilian audiences, making him a household name in the country.
In addition to the series launch, Yaman is set to host special events for his fans, including two nights of Meet & Greet opportunities, allowing fans to connect with him personally. This initiative is expected to further enhance his popularity and solidify his status as a beloved figure in Brazilian entertainment.
As El Turco continues to gain traction, it highlights the growing interest in Turkish dramas among Brazilian audiences, who have embraced the genre wholeheartedly. The blend of historical narratives, romantic entanglements, and cultural themes resonates well with viewers, making El Turco a must-watch series.
With its compelling storyline and strong performances, El Turco is not just a series; it's a cultural phenomenon that is redefining the landscape of streaming content in Brazil. As audiences tune in to witness Balaban's journey, the series promises to keep viewers engaged and invested in its unfolding drama.
