Ercan Kesal

Theater, film, television series actor, director, screenwriter, author, and medical doctor. Born on September 13, 1959, in Avanos, Nevşehir, Turkey. He graduated from Ege University, Faculty of Medicine. Ercan Kesal is one of the most respected, multi-talented, and intellectually accomplished figures in contemporary Turkish arts and literature. For many years, he worked as a dedicated practicing physician in various regions of Anatolia before his immense passion for cinema and writing took center stage. He made his silver screen debut in Nuri Bilge Ceylan's acclaimed film "Distant" (Uzak, 2002) and achieved international renown and critical praise for co-writing and starring in the cinematic masterpiece "Once Upon a Time in Anatolia" (Bir Zamanlar Anadolu'da, 2011). To mainstream audiences, he became a household name with his legendary performance as the family patriarch İdris Koçovalı in the smash-hit crime-drama series "The Pit" (Çukur). He also stood out in Netflix's "Another Self" (Zeytin Ağacı) and the intense drama "Aldatmak". The recipient of numerous prestigious domestic and international awards for his acting, directing, and screenwriting, Kesal seamlessly combines high-profile screen work with a prolific literary career. Interesting facts: His birthplace is Avanos. His life story is truly unique, seamlessly blending deep medical experience (he established his own medical center) with brilliant artistic mastery. Instantly recognizable by his warm brown eyes and wise, authoritative presence, he has a very profound screen aura. He is a highly celebrated author of over a dozen books, including the critically acclaimed "Peri Gazozu" and "Cin Aynası". He possesses an immense knowledge of sociology, anthropology, and philosophy. In his spare time, he completely dedicates himself to writing and cultural research. Marital Status: Married (to the renowned actress Nazan Kesal since 2005; they have a son named Poyraz).