Turkey’s television industry continues to deliver ambitious productions that attract both domestic audiences and international viewers. Among the most talked-about upcoming projects is Başkalarının Hayatı (The Lives of Others), an emotionally driven drama from Ay Yapım for Star TV.
Adding even more excitement to the series, rising actress Deniz Ekinci has officially joined the cast in the role of Gülizar, a character expected to play an important emotional role throughout the story.
As production prepares to begin, this casting announcement offers viewers a clearer picture of the relationships and themes that will shape one of the season’s most anticipated Turkish dramas.
Deniz Ekinci Brings Gülizar to Life
Deniz Ekinci’s addition strengthens an already impressive ensemble cast assembled by Ay Yapım.
She will portray Gülizar, the childhood friend of the series’ central character, Hülya, played by Eylül Lize Kandemir. Rather than existing simply as a supporting character, Gülizar represents loyalty, friendship, and emotional stability within a story expected to explore ambition, identity, and personal transformation.
Working in a clothing store, Gülizar has grown up alongside Hülya in the same neighborhood. Their shared history provides the emotional foundation for a friendship that audiences will likely follow closely throughout the series.
Why Gülizar Could Become One of the Drama’s Most Important Characters
Supporting characters often shape the emotional depth of successful Turkish dramas.
Based on currently available information, Gülizar appears to be exactly that kind of character.
She represents:
- lifelong friendship
- trust
- emotional support
- grounded family values
- neighborhood culture
- unwavering loyalty
While the series will undoubtedly focus on larger conflicts, characters like Gülizar often become the emotional anchor that helps viewers connect with the story.
If adapted thoughtfully, her relationship with Hülya may become one of the defining dynamics of the series.
About The Lives of Others (Başkalarının Hayatı)
Produced by renowned Turkish production company Ay Yapım, the series is scheduled to air on Star TV.
The screenplay has been written by acclaimed writer Banu Kiremitçi Bozkurt, while experienced director Burak Müjdeci will oversee production.
Filming is expected to begin on 23 July, with cast members gathering for an earlier script reading session.
The combination of an experienced creative team and an ambitious adaptation has generated considerable anticipation among Turkish drama fans.
Inspired by the Mexican Series Rubi
One of the most interesting aspects of The Lives of Others is that it is adapted from the internationally recognized Mexican drama Rubi.
Rather than creating a direct remake, Turkish adaptations typically reinterpret international stories by incorporating local cultural values, family relationships, and social expectations.
This creative approach has helped many Turkish adaptations achieve success while still maintaining their own identity.
Fans familiar with Rubi will naturally compare the two productions, but viewers should expect significant cultural and narrative adjustments for Turkish audiences.
Deniz Ekinci’s Growing Career
Although still considered one of Turkey’s promising young actresses, Deniz Ekinci continues building a portfolio of increasingly visible television roles.
Joining a major Ay Yapım production represents another important milestone in her career.
Large-scale productions often provide emerging actors with opportunities to reach wider audiences, both in Turkey and internationally through global streaming platforms and television distribution.
For Ekinci, portraying Gülizar offers the chance to demonstrate emotional range within an ensemble cast.
The Creative Team Behind the Drama
One reason industry observers are paying attention to this project is the strength of its production team.
Screenwriter
Banu Kiremitçi Bozkurt has developed a reputation for character-driven storytelling that balances emotional realism with compelling drama.
Director
Burak Müjdeci brings significant directing experience and is expected to deliver the cinematic visual style audiences have come to expect from premium Turkish television.
Production Company
Ay Yapım remains one of Turkey’s most respected production companies, known for producing internationally successful dramas that consistently perform well across global markets.
Together, this creative team creates high expectations for The Lives of Others.
What Makes This Series Worth Watching?
Several factors distinguish the project before its premiere.
Strong Ensemble Cast
The addition of talented young performers alongside experienced actors creates opportunities for layered storytelling.
Emotional Relationships
Friendships, family ties, and personal ambition appear central to the narrative.
International Inspiration
Drawing inspiration from Rubi introduces a familiar dramatic framework while allowing room for original Turkish storytelling.
High Production Standards
Ay Yapım’s reputation suggests audiences can expect polished cinematography, strong performances, and careful production values.
The Importance of Female Friendships in Turkish Drama
While romance often dominates television dramas, genuine female friendships can provide some of the genre’s most memorable moments.
The relationship between Hülya and Gülizar appears positioned to offer:
- emotional support
- honest conversations
- personal growth
- difficult choices
- shared history
- contrasting perspectives
These relationships frequently resonate strongly with audiences because they feel authentic and relatable.
Production Timeline
According to available production information:
- Script reading is scheduled for 9 July.
- Principal photography is expected to begin on 23 July.
- Production is being completed for Star TV.
- Ay Yapım serves as the production company.
Additional casting announcements and promotional materials are expected as filming progresses.
Final Thoughts
The announcement that Deniz Ekinci will portray Gülizar adds another promising element to The Lives of Others. While much remains unknown about the series, the combination of a respected production company, experienced creative leadership, and a talented young cast has already generated significant anticipation among Turkish drama enthusiasts.
As production begins, viewers will be watching closely to see how this Turkish adaptation develops its own identity while honoring the emotional themes that made its original inspiration widely recognized.
If early expectations are met, The Lives of Others could become one of Star TV’s standout drama premieres.
SOURCE: Birsen Altuntas, IMDB, Star TV, Ay Yapım
Keep in Touch For More Updates: www.buzzwithriz.com
Table of contents
- Deniz Ekinci Brings Gülizar to Life
- Why Gülizar Could Become One of the Drama’s Most Important Characters
- About The Lives of Others (Başkalarının Hayatı)
- Inspired by the Mexican Series Rubi
- Deniz Ekinci’s Growing Career
- The Creative Team Behind the Drama
- Screenwriter
- Director
- Production Company
- What Makes This Series Worth Watching?
- Strong Ensemble Cast
- Emotional Relationships
- International Inspiration
- High Production Standards
- The Importance of Female Friendships in Turkish Drama
- Production Timeline
- Final Thoughts

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