Ertugrul hero Engin Altan Duzyatan credits Pakistan for his global fame
Stay tuned with 24 News HD Android App
Engin Altan Duzyatan, the lead actor in the famous Turkish drama Ertugrul Ghazi, credits Pakistan for his global fame.
During a conversation at the 'Red Sea international Film Festival', he has expressed profound gratitude towards Pakistan audience for the immense popularity he has gained outside Turkey.
The actor revealed that while Ertugrul Ghazi was already successful in Turkey, its airing in Pakistan significantly boosted his international popularity. He acknowledged that the reception in Pakistan exceeded his expectations, leading to a global surge in his fanbase.
Duzyatan praised the love and admiration the Pakistani audience showed for his character, Ertugrul. He stated that while viewers may be similar across the world but it’s a different ballgame in Pakistan.
Duzyatan’s visit to Pakistan in 2020 further solidified this connection, where he was warmly welcomed by fans and engaged with terminally ill children through the Make-A-Wish Foundation. He expressed his desire to work in a Pakistani drama if given a good story, showcasing his openness to cultural collaboration. “I would love to work in a Pakistani drama or film, given the right opportunity,” he said.
The popularity of Ertugrul Ghazi in Pakistan has had a positive impact on Turkish tourism, with many viewers expressing interest in visiting Turkey’s historical sites, further enhancing cultural ties.
Duzyatan noted, “We know for a fact that Turkey's popularity increased after the TV series which is great news. We are really glad”.The series became a household name in Pakistan after the former PM Imran Khan recommended it to the youth and it was subsequently aired on state-run PTV and was dubbed in Urdu.
The actor also discussed the lasting impact the character of Ertugrul had on him, revealing that it took time to detach from the role. He shared his aspiration to portray Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey, in a future project.