Who is Merve Dizdar? A Rising Star in Turkish Cinema and Theatre

TURKISH ACTORS & ACTRESSES

2/5/20252 min read

Early Life and Education

Merve Dizdar, a distinguished Turkish actress recently honored as a Chevalier (Knight) in France, was born on June 25, 1986, in İzmir, Turkey. She graduated from Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University’s Faculty of Fine Arts, majoring in Acting. Further honing her craft, she pursued a master’s degree in Advanced Acting at Kadir Has University.

Her theatre career began with Semaver Kumpanya, a prominent theatre group in Turkey, and she later continued performing with Craft Theatre, known for its avant-garde productions.

Personal Life

In 2018, Merve Dizdar married fellow actor Gürhan Altundaşar. However, their union came to an end in 2021 when the couple decided to part ways.

A Career Spanning Theatre, Television, and Film

Merve Dizdar’s career is a testament to her versatility as an actress. From emotionally charged dramatic roles to comedic performances, she has made a significant impact in Turkish cinema and television.

Filmography

Merve Dizdar has starred in numerous films, gaining recognition for her dynamic performances. Some of her most notable works include:

2023 – About Dry Grasses (Kuru Otlar Üstüne) – Premiered at Cannes Film Festival
2022 – Snow and the Bear (Kar ve Ayı)
2022 – The Repair Shop (Tamirhane)
2021 – Have You Ever Seen Fireflies? (Sen Hiç Ateşböceği Gördün mü?)
2020 – The War of the In-Laws (Eltilerin Savaşı)
2019 – One Love, Two Lives (Bir Aşk İki Hayat)
2017 – Organic Love Stories (Organik Aşk Hikayeleri)
2017 – The Gulf (Körfez)
2016 – No Way 2 (Yok Artık 2)
2013 – The Philosopher of the Farm (Mandıra Filozofu)
2012 – A Sound Divides the Night (Bir Ses Böler Geceyi)

Television Career

Her television roles have showcased her incredible range, with performances in historical dramas, psychological thrillers, and lighthearted comedies. Some of her most significant TV series include:

2023 – Magarsus
2023 – Omer
2022 – Erşan Kuneri
2021 – The Red Room (Kırmızı Oda)
2020-2022 – The Innocents (Masumlar Apartmanı) – One of her most critically acclaimed roles
2020 – Miracle Doctor (Mucize Doktor)
2017-2018 – Vatanım Sensin
2017 – Face to Face (Yüz Yüze)
2015-2016 – Lizard (Kertenkele)
2015 – The Five Brothers (Beş Kardeş)
2014 – Crazy Class at University (Çılgın Dershane Üniversitede)
2013-2014 – The 90s (Doksanlar)
2012 – People’s Realm (İnsanlar Alemi)
2010-2011 – Kavak Yelleri

International Recognition and Cannes Success

Merve Dizdar’s career reached an international level with her role in About Dry Grasses (Kuru Otlar Üstüne), which premiered at the 76th Cannes Film Festival in 2023. Her performance in the film earned her the Best Actress Award, making her one of Turkey’s most celebrated actresses on the global stage.

Her recent Chevalier de l'Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters) honor from France further solidified her status as an actress of global significance.

A Bright Future in Acting

With her ability to bring complex characters to life, Merve Dizdar continues to be a prominent figure in Turkish entertainment. Whether through theatre, film, or television, she remains a captivating presence and an inspiration for aspiring actors worldwide.

Her journey from the Turkish stage to international recognition is proof of her exceptional talent and dedication to the craft. Fans eagerly anticipate her future projects as she continues to push artistic boundaries.