The Young Uncles #005 - Ismail Hakki

Reshad Strik and Cyrus McGoldrick, AKA The Young Uncles, sat down with renowned actor, writer, and producer Ismail Hakki to discuss his personal journey as well as acting, history, identity, storytelling, travel, faith, and the experiences that shaped one of Turkiye's most distinctive screen personalities. --- İsmail Hakkı Ürün is a Turkish actor, writer, and producer known for his work in some of the most widely watched historical and action dramas in Türkiye. Over a career spanning television, film, and cultural production, he has become recognized for portraying strong, complex characters in productions that explore history, identity, and the human experience. Born in Istanbul in 1976, Ürün pursued an international educational path that took him across the Muslim world and Europe. He graduated from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) with a degree in International Relations and later studied cinema at the Filmakademie Baden-Württemberg in Ludwigsburg, Germany. His years abroad also included significant time in Bosnia and Herzegovina, contributing to a broad cultural perspective that continues to inform his artistic work. Fluent in English, German, Arabic, Russian, Bosnian, and Malay-Indonesian, Ürün brings a uniquely global outlook to his creative endeavors. His academic background, international experience, and deep interest in history and culture have made him a distinctive presence within the Turkish entertainment industry. Audiences around the world know him from acclaimed productions including Sakarya Fırat, Payitaht Abdülhamid, and Kuruluş: Osman, where his performances have earned him a reputation for combining commanding screen presence with emotional depth and authenticity. Whether portraying soldiers, statesmen, scholars, or historical figures, he is known for bringing intensity, nuance, and humanity to every role. Beyond acting, Ürün has worked as a writer and producer and has remained actively engaged in cultural and intellectual life through public discussions, panels, and creative projects. His work reflects a continuing interest in the intersection of history, civilization, faith, and storytelling. Today, İsmail Hakkı Ürün stands as one of the most respected figures in contemporary Turkish historical drama, admired not only for his performances on screen but also for the breadth of experience and perspective he brings to his craft.