Simay Barlas: A Glimpse into the Career of Turkey’s TV Star

Who is Simay Barlas?

Simay Barlas, born on May 7, 1999, in Istanbul, Turkey, has swiftly risen to prominence in the Turkish entertainment industry, captivating audiences with her remarkable acting talent and versatile performances. From her early days as a newcomer to her recent status as one of Turkey’s most sought-after actresses, Barlas’s career is a testament to her dedication, versatility, and passion for the craft.

Early Life and Education

Simay Barlas grew up in Istanbul and went on to pursue her passion for cinema and television by enrolling in Istanbul Bilgi University’s Cinema and Television program. Graduating from the prestigious institution, she prepared herself for a future in the entertainment industry. Little did she know that her big break was just around the corner.

The Breakthrough Role in 'Paramparça'

Barlas’s acting journey began at the age of 15, with her debut role in the popular Star TV drama Paramparça (Broken Pieces). From 2014 to 2017, she portrayed the character Öykü, marking her first major appearance on the small screen. Her natural talent and charm quickly garnered attention, allowing her to take on more significant roles in the years that followed.

Stepping into Leading Roles

After her success in Paramparça, Simay continued to build her career, starring in the hit TV series Hayat Bazen Tatlıdır(BitterSweet Life) as Gözde Sarıyaz (2016-2017) and Adı Efsane (The Legend) as Naz Yalınay in 2017. These roles further solidified her place in the Turkish television industry and demonstrated her ability to embody a range of characters, from the sweet and innocent to the strong and determined.

Zalim İstanbul: The Role That Catapulted Her Career

Simay Barlas’s career took a significant leap forward in 2019 when she was cast in the hit series Zalim İstanbul (Ruthless City) as Damla Karaçay. This role catapulted her into the limelight, and her performance received widespread acclaim. The series, which ran from 2019 to 2020, cemented her status as one of Turkey's rising stars and expanded her fanbase beyond the local scene.

Exploring Film and New Challenges

In 2020, Simay made her debut in film with Dijital Esaret (Digital Captivity), where she portrayed the character Damla. Her transition from TV to film allowed her to explore new creative challenges and expand her acting range, showcasing her versatility and commitment to taking on diverse roles.

Recent Projects: Aziz and Ömer

Between 2021 and 2022, Simay continued to shine in the critically acclaimed series Aziz, where she played the character Efnan. Her portrayal of Efnan won her praise for her emotional depth and complex character development.

In 2023, Barlas starred in Ömer as Süreyya Kutlu, another role that demonstrated her ability to portray multi-faceted characters in compelling stories. Her performances in these recent projects reflect a seasoned actress at the peak of her career, capable of bringing nuance and emotion to every role.

Upcoming Projects and Future Prospects

Simay Barlas’s success shows no signs of slowing down. She is set to appear in the highly anticipated series Shahrazad: Tears of İstanbul, a project slated for release in 2024. As one of Turkey’s most exciting talents, her future in the entertainment industry looks incredibly promising.

Personal Beliefs and Philosophy

Simay Barlas is known for her grounded nature and thoughtful approach to life. In a 2023 interview with Formsantémagazine, she shared her personal belief in karma, stating, “I believe in karma more than I do in the evil eye. I think everyone has their own karma, and everything we do has a reason, just like there are consequences for our actions—sometimes immediate, sometimes years later. Ultimately, I believe that good and bad deeds never go unanswered.” This philosophy reflects her genuine and down-to-earth personality.

Personal Life

In September 2024, Simay Barlas made headlines with the news that she and her Yabani co-star, Halit Özgür Sarı, had ended their romantic relationship. Despite the end of this high-profile relationship, Barlas continues to focus on her career, and her fans continue to support her every step of the way.

Simay Barlas has firmly established herself as a star in Turkish television and film. With her natural talent, diverse roles, and commitment to her craft, she has captured the hearts of audiences across Turkey and beyond. As she continues to grow as an actress, her upcoming projects are highly anticipated, and it’s clear that Barlas’s career is only just beginning. We can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next!