On March 22, 2025, the Turkish entertainment industry gathered at the Atatürk Cultural Center (AKM) to honor the memory of the late Osman Sınav, a celebrated director, producer, and screenwriter known for iconic television dramas like Kurtlar Vadisi, Ekmek Teknesi, and Deli Yürek. Sınav passed away two days earlier, at the age of 69, after a long battle with cancer.
The ceremony was attended by numerous prominent figures, including Culture and Tourism Deputy Minister Batuhan Mumcu, who expressed profound sorrow over the loss of Sınav, stating, "Yapımlarıyla Türk televizyonlarına yön veren büyük ustayı kaybetmenin derin üzüntüsünü yaşıyoruz. Zihnimizde ve gönlümüzde derin izler bırakan, dizi ve filmleriyle sanat dünyamıza ruh ve karakter katan birisinin ardından konuşmak gerçekten son derece zor," reinforcing Sınav's monumental influence on Turkish television.
Sınav's family received condolences during the ceremony. His son, Yusuf Ömer Sınav, struggled to hold back tears as he spoke about his father's remarkable life and contributions. "Babam çok güzel bir adamdı. Sadece yaptığı filmlerle değil, hayata, insanlara bakışıyla, insanlara kattığı değerle..." he reflected, portraying Sınav not just as a father but as a nurturing presence who deeply impacted many lives.
Notable actors and peers expressed their admiration for Sınav. Abidin Yerebakan, who acknowledged Sınav's mentorship, said, "Allah rahmet eylesin bende çok büyük emeği olan bir usta, bir ağabey, bir baba. Son derece vatansever son derece entelektüel bir kişilik..." emphasizing Sınav's patriotism and intellect.
Following the memorial service, a funeral prayer was held at Marmara University Theology Faculty Mosque, and Sınav was laid to rest in Karacaahmet Cemetery. The loss resonated deeply within the community, with renowned actors reflecting on their relationships with Sınav. Kenan İmirzalıoğlu emotionally stated, "O benim bu sektörde ustam. Bana bu mesleği öğreten..." asserting Sınav's pivotal role in shaping his career and the industry at large.
Prof. Dr. Alev İdrisoğlu from Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University spoke highly of Sınav, describing him as a dedicated and trustworthy individual who always contributed to others. "Osman Sınav'ı birazcık tanıyan herkes onu vefalı, güvenilir, dürüst olarak tanır..." he said, noting Sınav's disciplined work ethic and his significant role in advancing Turkish television.
Throughout his career, which spanned over three decades, Sınav created numerous memorable series that received acclaim not only in Turkey but across multiple countries. His legacy includes the founding of his production company, Sinegraf, which has been instrumental in bringing diverse stories to television screens.
The ceremony concluded with heartfelt remembrances, highlighting the impact and legacy of Osman Sınav. As Minister Mumcu aptly stated, "Onun yapımları yüreğinde memleket sevdası taşıyan herkes için birer hatıra olarak kalacak," reaffirming that Sınav's contributions would continue to resonate with audiences for generations to come.
Osman Sınav leaves behind a rich tapestry of stories and characters that have shaped the cultural landscape of Turkish television. His passion for storytelling and dedication to his craft will be remembered by fans, colleagues, and future storytellers who follow in his footsteps.
