Hazal Kaya

Theater, film, and television series actress, and model. Born on October 1, 1990, in Konya, Turkey, into a family of lawyers. She grew up in Istanbul, where she graduated from the prestigious Italian High School (İtalyan Lisesi). From a very young age, she was professionally introduced to performing arts, taking lessons in ballet, violin, and theater for seven years. She pursued her higher education at Istanbul Bilgi University, Department of Stage and Performing Arts. Displaying a multifaceted lifestyle, she also successfully graduated from the Culinary Arts Academy (MSA) as a professional chef. Hazal Kaya is one of the most prominent, exceptionally gifted, and internationally acclaimed leading actresses in contemporary Turkish entertainment. She captured initial television prominence by portraying Özge in the youth drama series "Genco" (2007–2008). Her ultimate career breakthrough and massive global stardom came with her masterful portrayal of Nihal Ziyagil in the legendary cult drama phenomenon "Forbidden Love" (Aşk-ı Memnu, 2008–2010), cementing her status as a top-tier superstar. She successfully solidified her global icon credentials by starring as Feriha Yılmaz in the record-breaking blockbuster romance series "I Named Her Feriha" (Adını Feriha Koydum, 2011–2012). Her remarkable television credits advanced further as she led high-profile primetime series such as "Maral" (2015), "Our Story" (Bizim Hikaye, 2017–2019), and the acclaimed Netflix historical sci-fi drama "Midnight at the Pera Palace" (Pera Palas'ta Gece Yarısı, 2022–2024). On the silver screen, her notable feature film credits include the critically acclaimed "İtirazım Var" (2014) and the hit comedy "Benden Ne Olur?" (2022). Interesting facts: She is a certified polyglot, speaking fluent Turkish, Italian, and English, along with advanced German. Over the years, she has frequently been featured on global lists of the world's most beautiful and influential actresses, serving as the commercial brand face for elite international beauty lines. Beyond her acting accolades, she is a dedicated social activist, fiercely advocating for women's rights, child protection, and animal welfare. Marital Status: She has been married to the prominent Turkish actor, director, and musician Ali Atay since February 6, 2019. The couple shares two children, a son named Fikret Ali and a daughter named Leyla Süreyya.