FROM HISTORICAL DRAMAS TO GLOBAL STARDOM, UĞUR GÜNES ON HIS JOURNEY, LEGACY & LOVE FOR PAKISTAN

Posted On: 04:34 AM, 2 Jan, 2025
By Administrator: Webdesk

FROM HISTORICAL DRAMAS TO GLOBAL STARDOM, UĞUR GÜNES ON HIS JOURNEY, LEGACY & LOVE FOR PAKISTAN

Renowned for his dynamic roles across historical dramas and cinema, Ugur Gunes has captivated audiences worldwide, including a significant fan base in Pakistan. From his portrayal of Tuğtekin Bey in Diriliş: Ertuğrul to the iconic Selahuddin in Kudüs Fatihi Selahuddin Ayyubi, Ugur’s commitment to embodying transformative characters shines through. In this exclusive interview, he shares insights into his passion for storytelling, his admiration for Pakistan’s culture and talent, and the pride he feels in bridging cultures through his work.

Hello Uğur, Your career has spanned a variety of genres, from historical dramas to horror movies. What draws you to such diverse roles, and how do you decide which projects to take on?

I enjoy or might say prefer playing complex and extraordinary characters. The character has to resonate with me. Preparing for the role should challenge me and push me to rediscover myself. I’m especially drawn to characters who undergo transformation, have a compelling story, or have made a significant impact on history or humanity. That’s why I’m very selective and careful when choosing projects.

I send my love and warmest regards to all of them. I hope to visit Pakistan soon and can’t wait to meet my fans in person. It’ll be such a special moment to connect with everyone!

Many Pakistani fans know you from your role as TuğtekinBey in Diriliş: Ertuğrul. How do you feel about the global recognition that Turkish historical dramas have achieved, especially in countries like Pakistan?

It’s a source of immense pride for me. Being part of a project that portrays the life of a real character in history and seeing it reach and be loved by audiences across different countries and cultures is an incredible feeling. I think this kind of recognition is the best reward for all the hard work we’ve put into it.

Your role as Selahuddin in Kudüs Fatihi Selahuddin Ayyubi resonates deeply with fans due to its historical significance. What challenges did you face in preparing for such an iconic character?

Portraying a real historical figure was a bit daunting for me, to be honest, especially someone who achieved such remarkable feats as a commander. I approached the role with great caution and conducted extensive research. I tried to think like him, empathize, and analyze his decisions throughout history. It was a constant learning process. Delving into his inner world was challenging, especially since I had to show his brilliance as a commander and his wisdom as a scholar at the same time. Balancing those two aspects wasn’t easy, but I think I gave it my best.

Seeing Turkish historical dramas loved by audiences across different countries and cultures is the best reward for all the hard work we’ve put into it."

Pakistani audiences have a strong connection to Turkish actors and series. Have you ever considered visiting Pakistan or collaborating with Pakistani actors or filmmakers?

“Oh, I’d love to visit Pakistan! Unfortunately, I haven’t had the chance yet because of my busy shooting schedule. But I’m so happy that Kudüs Fatihi Selahuddin Ayyubi is a Turkish-Pakistani co-production—it marks our first collaboration. Pakistan has incredibly talented actors and so many powerful stories to tell. I’d love to be part of a film or project there and work alongside Pakistani actors. That would be such a great experience.”

This collaboration has been made possible by the efforts of Prof. Dr. Kaşhif Ansari, Dr. Syed Junaid Ali Shah, Sarfraz Akbar, and Turkish producer Emre Konuk of Akli Film. Their dedication to fostering partnerships between the two countries is truly commendable.

As someone who’s worked on both TV and cinema, how does the experience differ for you as an actor? Do you have a preference between the two?

Honestly, I prefer cinema. For me, cinema feels more timeless and impactful. That said, high-quality TV series today can also be just as globally influential and lasting as films. When it comes to TV, I choose to work on large-scale, well-crafted productions. As far as acting goes, there’s no difference for me—I bring the same emotion and dedication to both. But cinema has always been more appealing to me.

Balancing his brilliance as a commander with his wisdom as a scholar wasn’t easy, but I think I gave it my best.

From playing Fatih in İsimsizler to Cemal Tunalı in Cep Herkülü: Naim Süleymanoğlu, you’ve portrayed many patriotic and strong characters. How do you approach these emotionally charged roles?

Like I said, playing real characters is really important to me. When I portray them on screen, I truly feel like I’m acting. I also bring a piece of myself into these roles. Bringing life to historically significant figures is an incredible experience. Preparing for these roles makes me more serious and focused—it’s a very intense process that motivates me even more.

Cinema feels more timeless and impactful. It’s always been more appealing to me.

Have you ever explored Pakistani culture, music, or cuisine? Is there something specific you’re curious to try if you visit?

Not yet, but I’m so curious! I really want to visit Pakistan as soon as possible. I’d love to explore the country, try its unique flavors, and, of course, meet the viewers who watch our series with so much love and support.

Be a good person—without empathy, you can’t understand a character. Acting is an endless journey of learning and growth.

Your career has earned you awards and critical praise. Looking back, what moment or project do you feel most proud of, and why?

That would have to be my first festival film, Gün BatımınaBirkaç Gün Kala (A Few Days Before Sunset). It was my story, and I was also the co-producer and the lead actor. The film won five awards at its first international festival, the Bosphorus International Film Festival. To receive that kind of recognition atmy first festival film was incredible. It’s one of the proudest moments of my life.

Pakistan has incredibly talented actors and so many powerful stories to tell. I’d love to be part of a project there and work alongside Pakistani actors.

As someone with such a dynamic career, what advice would you give to aspiring actors in Pakistan and beyond?

First and foremost, be a good person. Without being a good person, you can’t be a good actor. Empathy is key—if you can’t empathize, you can’t understand a character. Beyond that, aspiring actors should always work on improving themselves, practice as much as possible, read extensively, and watch a lot of performances. Acting is an endless journey of learning and growth. You have to stay dynamic, push your boundaries, and let your imagination be limitless. Keep learning—that’s the fastest way to grow.

Portraying real characters is an incredible experience that challenges me to bring a piece of myself into every role.

Finally, your fans in Pakistan admire not just your acting but your personality. What message would you like to send to them?

I send my love and warmest regards to all of them. I hope to visit Pakistan soon and can’t wait to meet my fans in person. It’ll be such a special moment to connect with everyone!

It’s a source of immense pride for me to see my work bridging cultures and connecting audiences from different parts of the world.

Message to your HELLO! followers….

I'am thrilled to connect with each of you, no matter where in the world you call home! Your passion and excitement inspire me every day, and I'am beyond grateful to share these incredible stories with you. Together, we’re building a global community united by our love for unforgettable characters, thrilling moments, and epic tales.