Long before its U.S. debut, El Turco had already built a global following. Now, the sweeping historical drama starring Can Yaman is captivating American audiences with its mix of high-stakes action, romance, and emotional storytelling. The series has already won over viewers across Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, Africa, and Central Asia, and now it’s ready for a new audience.
In an exclusive interview with HOLA! Americas, the Istanbul-born actor opens up about what the project means to him, his connection to Latino culture, his dream of working with William Levy, and the national team he’ll be cheering for at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In an exclusive interview with HOLA! Americas, the Istanbul-born actor opens up about what the project means to him
A Story of Betrayal, Love, and Redemption
El Turco follows Hasan Balaban (Can Yaman), a warrior betrayed by his own family. Fleeing his painful past, he finds refuge in a small Italian village suffering under the rule of a ruthless tyrant. There, he meets Gloria (Greta Ferro), a fearless woman determined to free her people. Their growing romance unfolds against a backdrop of danger, while Hasan must also confront Marco (Will Kemp), his greatest rival, whose connection to his past holds unexpected surprises.
El Turco follows Hasan Balaban (Can Yaman), a warrior betrayed by his own family. Fleeing his painful past, he finds refuge in a small Italian village suffering under the rule of a ruthless tyrant
The series combines action, romance, and historical intrigue in a story that keeps viewers invested from the very first episode.
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“This Project Felt Personal”
Now connecting with Latino audiences through El Turco, Yaman says the series has become an important milestone in his career.
You’re part of a production that’s winning over audiences around the world. What has that meant to you?
This production company is the best in Turkey. I never had the chance to work with them while I was living there. Five years ago, I moved to Italy, where I filmed several Italian series. They approached me while I was living there, and I was thrilled when I learned they wanted to work together. It was their first English-language series on such a large international scale, which made it even more special.
I also feel personally connected to El Turco. I’m a Turkish man who left Turkey to live in Italy, just like my character, who escapes the Ottoman Empire and settles in a small Italian town. There were so many aspects of the production that made me happy, especially working from an English-language script.
You’ve traveled the world and met fans from many different countries. How does the Latino audience compare with others?
I absolutely love Latino culture. While filming Sandokán, I started dreaming about working in Spanish, especially in Spain. That’s when I decided to learn the language.
As soon as filming wrapped, I began taking lessons. My teacher came to my house, and we studied Spanish for four hours every day. After she left, I’d spend even more time watching Spanish-language movies and TV series.
Later, I filmed a romantic drama in Spain for six months. After production ended, I rented a house and stayed in Madrid, where I met so many Latinos and really immersed myself in the culture. Now that I’ve worked in Spain, I hope to one day work in a Latin American country as well.
Which Spanish-speaking actor would you most like to work with?
There are so many talented actors. I worked in Spain with Secuoya Studios, and I believe we’ll continue collaborating. They also work with William Levy, so maybe one day we’ll end up starring in the same movie.
Can Yaman is captivating American audiences with its mix of high-stakes action, romance, and emotional storytelling
His Pick for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Just as El Turco brings different cultures together, so does soccer. Who are you rooting for to win the 2026 World Cup?
I’ve always admired Messi. I love watching him play, so I’ll say I’m supporting Argentina. I hope Messi wins!
You’ve become known for action and romance. Is there a hidden talent that would surprise your fans?
I’m about to start filming a new series in Italy next month. It’s a comedy where I play a brilliant lawyer who struggles with social skills and relationships with women.
It’s a very self-deprecating, character-driven comedy. The original idea was mine, and the writers developed it. It’ll really challenge me as an actor and give me the chance to explore my comedic side. I’m incredibly excited because it’s something completely different for me.
© Telemundo
© Telemundo
