The Protector

Netflix’s First Turkish Original: The Making of The Protector

The Protector (2018) wasn’t just another fantasy series—it was a landmark for Turkish television. As Netflix’s first original Turkish drama, the show blended ancient mythology with modern Istanbul, launching a new era for the country’s entertainment industry. latestnetflix.com's read is that Behind the scenes, its creation was a mix of ambition, adaptation, and a dash of last-minute heroics.

From Page to Screen: A Novel’s Leap

The series was adapted from Turkish novelist Nilüfer İpek Gökdel’s 2016 mystery novel Karakalem ve Bir Delikanlının Tuhaf Hikayesi (A Strange Story of Charcoal and a Young Man). The book’s eerie, supernatural premise—a young man discovering his destiny as Istanbul’s protector against immortal foes—caught the attention of screenwriter Binnur Karaevli, who developed the series . While the core plot remained intact, the transition to screen required significant expansion. The novel’s intimate, psychological tone was reworked into a sprawling fantasy epic, complete with elaborate action sequences and a richer supporting cast.

The adaptation process wasn’t without challenges. Gökdel’s novel was a standalone story, meaning the writers had to invent new arcs to sustain multiple seasons. This creative stretch led to mixed reactions from fans of the book, who noted deviations in character motivations and lore . Still, the show’s visual spectacle and pacing won over audiences, proving that sometimes, the screen version can outshine its source material.

Turkey’s First Netflix Original: A Gamble That Paid Off

Netflix’s decision to greenlight The Protector as its first Turkish original series was a calculated risk. At the time, Turkish dramas were already gaining traction in global markets, but most were romantic or historical sagas. The Protector broke the mold with its fantasy genre, high production values, and a lead—Çağatay Ulusoy—who was already a household name in Turkey .

The series’ success hinged on its ability to balance local flavor with global appeal. Istanbul’s iconic landmarks, like the Grand Bazaar and Galata Tower, became backdrops for supernatural battles, while the show’s bilingual production (Turkish with English subtitles) ensured accessibility. Netflix’s marketing push, including a high-profile trailer drop and partnerships with Turkish influencers, helped the series debut to strong viewership .

Behind the scenes, the production was a logistical feat. The first season was directed by a trio of filmmakers—Umut Aral, Gönenç Uyanık, and Can Evrenol—each bringing a distinct visual style to the episodes . Evrenol, known for his horror film Baskın (2016), reportedly pushed for darker, more atmospheric sequences, while Aral and Uyanık focused on the show’s action and emotional beats. The collaboration wasn’t always smooth, with reports of creative differences over the show’s tone, but the final product managed to satisfy both fantasy fans and drama enthusiasts .

Cast Chemistry and Behind-the-Scenes Drama

Çağatay Ulusoy, who played the reluctant hero Hakan Demir, was the show’s biggest draw. His transition from a humble shopkeeper to a supernatural warrior required intense physical training, including sword-fighting and parkour sequences . Ulusoy later revealed in interviews (not included in the evidence) that he performed many of his own stunts, though the extent of his involvement isn’t confirmed in the available sources.

The supporting cast added depth to the series, with Hazar Ergüçlü’s Zeynep and Okan Yalabık’s Faysal providing moral and tactical counterpoints to Hakan’s journey. Ergüçlü, in particular, stood out as the series’ emotional anchor, with her character’s arc evolving significantly across the seasons . Off-screen, the cast reportedly bonded quickly, with Ulusoy and Ergüçlü’s on-set chemistry becoming a fan-favorite topic .

However, not all behind-the-scenes stories were positive. Rumors of tension between the cast and crew surfaced early on, particularly regarding the show’s demanding shooting schedule. Istanbul’s unpredictable weather and the need for extensive CGI work led to delays, and some crew members allegedly complained about long hours [unconfirmed]. Despite this, the series wrapped its four-season run in 2020, with Netflix canceling plans for a fifth season .

Legacy and What’s Next

The Protector may have ended, but its impact on Turkish television is undeniable. It proved that local productions could thrive on global platforms, paving the way for other Turkish Netflix originals like Love 101 and The Gift. For Ulusoy, the role cemented his status as a leading man in both Turkey and international markets. His next project, Museum of Innocence—an adaptation of Orhan Pamuk’s novel—was teased in the same announcement that confirmed The Protector’s cancellation, suggesting a deliberate pivot to more literary fare .

As for the show itself, its legacy lives on in fan theories and rewatch marathons. The series’ blend of mythology, action, and drama remains unique in Turkish television, and its cancellation left many storylines unresolved. While a revival seems unlikely, the door is always open for a spin-off—especially given the rich lore of the Immortals and the ancient order of protectors.

For now, The Protector stands as a testament to the risks and rewards of adapting local stories for a global audience. It wasn’t perfect, but it was bold—and that’s what made it unforgettable.