RTÜK Bans HBO Max Series "Jasmine" in Turkey After Backlash

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Digital Phablet – The RTÜK ruling removed Jasmine from broadcast after sparking significant controversy.

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The Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK), Turkey’s media regulatory authority, has taken decisive action against the new HBO Max series Jasmine. It has been banned across all streaming platforms within Turkey and subjected to the most substantial fine allowable. This decision followed extensive public and regulatory debate over the show’s first episode, which many believed infringed upon Turkey’s laws related to societal morality and family values.

Jasmine debuted on HBO Max on December 12, 2025, quickly becoming one of the most discussed topics on Turkish social media—not only for its storyline but also for the passionate reactions from various viewers. The series is a psychological drama about Yasemin, a young woman battling a terminal heart condition. Her pursuit of a heart transplant leads her into morally complex situations. Her only close confidante is Tufan, her stepbrother. Their intense connection complicates their circumstances as they grapple with despair, ethics, and defying societal norms.

Asena Keskinci stars as Yasemin and is the central figure of the series. She gained fame through her role in the popular family show Bez Bebek and other dramas. Burak Can Aras portrays Tufan, which has contributed to lively discussions regarding the characters’ objectives and overarching themes of the show.

Following the controversy, TV+ (which holds a licensing agreement with HBO Max) withdrew Jasmine from its platform. This move exemplifies how secondary partners respond to regulatory pressures.

The dispute over Jasmine illuminates the ongoing tension in Turkey between creative expression on international streaming services and compliance with local broadcasting regulations, especially when sensitive issues challenge societal norms. The ongoing debates influence the show’s future and spark broader discussions about societal values and the limits of television content.