Turgay Tanülkü is a Turkish actor of theatre, cinema and television. Born in Uşak in 1953, he has been active throughout his artistic career in both stage performances and social responsibility initiatives. He served for many years with the State Theatres and is also known for his theatre work with young inmates in prisons. Throughout his acting career, he has taken on both dramatic and character roles, delivering performances in numerous productions on screen and stage.

Life and Education

Turgay Tanülkü was born on 18 July 1953 in Uşak and completed his education at the Theatre Department of Ankara State Conservatory. From his student years, he showed intense interest in theatre. After completing his conservatory training, he worked for many years with the State Theatres. A significant part of his artistic career has been dedicated to theatre, during which he simultaneously fulfilled roles as an actor, educator and director.

Theatre Work

Turgay Tanülkü has performed on stage at various theatres, including the State Theatres. He did not limit his theatre work to acting alone but also contributed to the training of theatre students as an educator. Through theatre workshops conducted in juvenile correctional facilities, he has carried out work aligned with the rehabilitative function of art. These activities reflect an approach that emphasizes the social dimensions of theatre.

Cinema and Television Career

Beginning in the 1980s, Turgay Tanülkü started appearing in feature films and took part in productions with social and political themes across various periods. From the 2000s onward, he also appeared in television series, reaching a broader audience. During this time, he became particularly known for his role as “Hayri Baba” in the series Eşkıya Dünyaya Hükümdar Olmaz. His film and television appearances include works in the action, drama and crime genres.

Series and Films Appeared In

• Kurtlar Vadisi (2007)
• Tek Türkiye (2008–2010)
• Yılan Hikayesi (1999–2001)
• Hayat Devam Ediyor (2011–2013)
• Benim İçin Üzülme (2012–2013)
• Adı Zehra (2018)
• Yalaza (2017)
• Eşkıya Dünyaya Hükümdar Olmaz (2015–2021)
• Arka Sokaklar (guest actor)
• Umut Üzümleri (cinema, 2013)
• Kelebekler Sonsuza Uçar (cinema, 1993)
• Umut (short film, 2009)

Awards Received

• Golden Boll Film Festival – Best Supporting Actor (Kelebekler Sonsuza Uçar, 1993)