The Italian Global Series 2026 will welcome Özge Gürel and Serkan Çayoğlu, two of the most popular faces of contemporary Turkish television. Both actors have played a key role in the international success of the dizi – Turkish drama series that have become a worldwide phenomenon over the past decade.
Their participation in the Festival offers a unique opportunity to celebrate one of the fastest-growing television industries and to meet two performers who have helped bring Turkish storytelling to audiences across the globe.
The careers of Özge Gürel and Serkan Çayoğlu
Born in 1987, Özge Gürel discovered her passion for acting after initially pursuing studies in a different field. She quickly established herself as one of Turkey’s most recognizable television actresses thanks to leading roles in some of the country’s most successful productions.
Among her best-known projects are Cherry Season and Mr. Wrong, two romantic series that significantly boosted the international popularity of Turkish television.
Serkan Çayoğlu, also born in 1987, grew up in Germany in a Turkish family before choosing to pursue an acting career. After his first television appearances, he quickly became one of the leading actors of Turkish drama, earning acclaim for both romantic and dramatic roles.
His breakthrough came with Cherry Season, followed by several successful productions that further established him as one of the industry’s most versatile performers.
One of Turkish television’s most beloved couples
Özge Gürel and Serkan Çayoğlu first won audiences over through their on-screen chemistry in Cherry Season. Their professional partnership eventually turned into a real-life relationship, making them one of the most beloved couples among international fans of Turkish series.
Today, they are considered two of the leading ambassadors of the Turkish television industry, which continues to expand its global reach and popularity.
Meeting the audience at Italian Global Series
The participation of Özge Gürel and Serkan Çayoğlu highlights the Festival’s commitment to showcasing major international television talent. Their appearance will provide an opportunity to explore the global rise of Turkish series, discuss their relationship with international audiences, and reflect on the evolution of an industry that has become an increasingly influential force in worldwide television production.
