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Digital Phablet – “Eşref Rüya,” “Uzak Şehir,” “Yeraltı,” and other Turkish TV series are currently facing potential cancellation due to recent violence in Turkey.
Following incidents of school violence, many social media users launched a campaign advocating for the suspension of these programs. They argued that depictions of violence and themes resembling mafia environments in television dramas have a detrimental influence on society and youth.
In response, Ozan Akbaba, the lead actor in “Uzak Şehir,” addressed the criticism by stating that some individuals are unfairly targeting him because the series, in which he portrays Cihan, deals with gun ownership and the control of weapons by tribes outside the legal boundaries set by the government.
Ignoring the backlash, Akbaba issued a heartfelt plea to parents on his Instagram, emphasizing that the foundation of responsible behavior starts at home. He urged, “Please raise and educate your children,” implying that neglect in upbringing is a fundamental cause of violence.
Demet Özdemir, star of the series “Eşref Rüya,” responded sharply to criticism, stating, “I am ashamed on your behalf.” She faced harsh reproach after posting a dance video of a fan while the nation was mourning. Özdemir broke her silence, accusing some individuals of orchestrating a smear campaign aimed at harming her reputation by exploiting a national tragedy.
She expressed through X (formerly Twitter): “Stop your smear campaigns for two minutes… We all know what truly matters. Shame on you; I am ashamed on your behalf.” She clarified that her initial silence or casual posts didn’t mean she was unaware of the tragedy; rather, she was overwhelmed by shock and could only wish for divine mercy for the victims during such a difficult period.
Özdemir also highlighted her deep pain through an Instagram post, stressing that schools should be the safest environments for children. She said, “School is a nurturing home, the safest refuge for a child after their home.” Her words conveyed her sorrow: “I am so sad… I have no words.”
Today, Turkey is enduring one of its most challenging moments after a tragic armed attack targeted students and teachers in Kahramanmaraş and Şanlıurfa. Prominent celebrities expressed condolences and delivered strong calls to action to society and officials:
Barış Arduç and Kaan Yıldırım underscored that schools are a child’s “second home” and that they should be sanctuaries of safety comparable to the security of one’s own residence, condemning the violation of childhood rights.
Actress Hande Erçel remarked, “There are no words left to write or say. I truly don’t know.” Her emotions echoed the national grief, praying for mercy and patience for all affected.
Pınar Deniz raised a critical security concern, questioning how lethal weapons could find their way into the hands of children under 14, thus highlighting serious lapses in security measures.
Hafsa Nur and Ferit Kaya pointed out that schools are designed for knowledge and hope, and turning them into places of fear is a grave sin against future generations.
Condolences also poured in from Taner Almaz, Nesrin Cavadzade, and Eda Ece, who extended their sympathies to the victims’ families and prayed for the quick recovery of the injured.
In light of these events, Turkish authorities announced strict measures to combat the spread of inappropriate content related to the incident. Multiple arrests have been made, and hundreds of social media accounts contributing to digital chaos have been shut down. Additionally, authorities are calling for increased security in all educational institutions.
Furthermore, a Facebook video highlighted efforts to reinforce safety protocols in schools and promote national unity during this difficult period.
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