On March 21, 2025, the Turkish series "El Turco" premiered on Globoplay and swiftly captivated audiences, breaking records for viewership within its first weekend. The show, which recounts the adventures of an Ottoman soldier, surpassed the previous viewership benchmarks set by fan-favorites such as "Tapas e Beijos" and the current ongoing telenovela “Mania de Você.” Only the reality show BBB 25 maintained higher audience numbers, showcasing just how significant "El Turco" has become in a crowded streaming landscape.
"El Turco" is available exclusively on Globoplay with original audio, subtitles, and dubbing. The series is tailored to engage its Brazilian audience, drawing them into a gripping storyline set in the 17th century. Lead actor Can Yaman portrays Balaban Ağa, an Ottoman soldier who, after suffering wounds in the Battle of Vienna in 1683, finds sanctuary in the quaint Italian village of Moena. Rescued by the locals, Balaban takes on the moniker "El Turco" and leads the village in revolt against an oppressive feudal lord.
The storyline, penned by acclaimed writers Kerem Deren and Çişil Hazal Tenim and directed by Uluç Bayraktar, charts Balaban's tumultuous journey as he grapples with his past while forming complex relationships amidst his newfound life.
Stars from various countries, including Will Kemp and Greta Ferro, bolster the cast, making "El Turco" not just a Turkish production but an international endeavor filmed predominantly in Hungary. The show’s global perspective resonates with audiences worldwide, contributing to Yaman’s rising stardom.
This week, Yaman landed in Brazil to kick off promotional activities, creating a buzz with his every appearance. A notable press event took place on March 25 in Rio de Janeiro, where Yaman interacted closely with journalists and fans alike. The excitement was palpable as numerous celebrities, including Cinnara Leal, Thamires Hauch, and Carol Nakamura, gathered to celebrate Yaman’s new role.
Reflecting on the significance of the project, Yaman commented, "Esse projeto foi divisor de águas, e foi muito especial fazer algo que mergulha na Itália, já que moro lá. Eu vi que era pra ser eu nesse papel," which translates to, "This project was a turning point, and it was very special to do something that immerses in Italy, as I live there. I saw that it was meant to be me in this role." His enthusiasm was infectious, underscoring both his personal and professional appreciation for the series.
Yaman expressed gratitude for the warm reception he has received from Brazilian fans, stating, "Estou vivendo um conto de fadas. Algo que geralmente acontece com artistas americanos, mas não com artistas turcos como eu. É estranho o que acontece comigo." From his words, it was clear that he felt special and cherished by those who come to meet him.
Through laughter and charm, Yaman added, "Não só no Brasil, eu fui para Londres e senti o amor deles. Na Espanha foi assim... em diferentes continentes que eu vou, eu encontro amor. É algo tão único. Não acontece o tempo todo. Então me sinto muito agradecido,” sharing his experience of being embraced by fans across continents, which reaffirmed his position as a beloved international figure.
After months of intense filming, Yaman acknowledged the challenges faced during production, revealing, "Tive que trabalhar que nem um guerreiro, ser um atleta durante esse processo," meaning, "I had to work like a warrior, be an athlete during this process." From extensive preparations to the actual filming, both Yaman and the crew dedicated countless hours bringing "El Turco" to fruition.
In discussing the series, Yaman mentioned some spicy moments throughout the episodes. He revealed, "Foi só aquilo, pois ainda é uma produção turca. Mas se for no Brasil ou na Rússia, teria mais,” suggesting that while the series contains some heated scenes, cultural sensibilities might limit their extent compared to productions in countries like Brazil or Russia.
Yaman's charm and ability to connect with his fans shone brightly during the event. As he posed for photos and shared laughs, it was evident that he enjoys the admiration he receives, especially from women. In a light-hearted moment, he quipped, "Eu adoro mulheres. Adoro mulheres ao meu redor. Odeio quando um homem vem tirar selfie comigo," which means, "I love women. I love having women around me. I hate when a man comes to take a selfie with me." His honesty created a jovial atmosphere filled with laughter.
The successful premiere of "El Turco" marks another milestone in Yaman’s career. His extraordinary background adds depth to his character. Born to Albanian parents in Istanbul, he is fluent in Italian and holds a law degree from Yeditepe University. Before making his mark in acting, Yaman practiced as a lawyer. However, it wasn’t until the 2014 series "Gönül Isleri" that he began his journey in the entertainment industry. His breakout role came in "Erkenci Kus" in 2018, which charted internationally and solidified his stardom.
As fans across Brazil embrace "El Turco," the narrative promises to be a remarkable addition to the streaming offerings on Globoplay. With insights into Yaman’s multi-faceted career and a glimpse into the series’ captivating story, viewers have much to look forward to in the ensuing weeks. Expectation grows as they will watch him transform into a character who will undoubtedly remain etched in their memories long after the final episode plays.
