Who is Rıza Kocaoğlu? Biography, Movies, TV Series & Latest Projects

Rıza Kocaoğlu, born on March 19, 1979, in İzmir, Turkey, is a well-known Turkish film and television actor. With a career spanning over two decades, he has captivated audiences with his intense performances and diverse roles.

Early Life and Education

Kocaoğlu graduated from the Theater Department of Dokuz Eylül University and began his acting career in the early 2000s. His family has roots in Thessaloniki, Greece, Kars, and Yerevan, reflecting a rich cultural heritage. His sister, Gözde Kocaoğlu, is also an actress.

Breakthrough in Cinema and Television

Rıza Kocaoğlu made his cinematic debut in 2001 with Bana Şans Dile (Wish Me Luck), where he played the lead role of Bahadır. He quickly gained recognition and went on to star in numerous films and TV series.

He became widely known for his role as Ali in the TV series Kuzey Güney (2011–2012) and later starred in critically acclaimed productions like Ezel, Karadayı, İçerde, and Çukur. His character Aliço in Çukur became a fan favorite, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile actor.

Notable Filmography

Films:

• Av Mevsimi (Hunting Season) (2010) – Asit Ömer

• Kaybedenler Kulübü (Losers' Club) (2010)

• Labirent (Labyrinth) (2011) – Haluk

• Dünyanın En Güzel Kokusu (The Best Scent in the World) (2015) – Hakan

• Organize İşler 2: Sazan Sarmalı (Money Trap) (2019) – Arıza Rıza

• 10 Days of a Good Man (2023) – Zeynel

• 10 Days of a Bad Man (2023) – Zeynel

Television Series:

• Ezel (2010–2011) – Temmuz

• Karadayı (2012–2015) – Yasin Ulutaş

• İçerde (Insider) (2016–2017) – Davut

• Çukur (The Pit) (2017–2021) – Aliço

• Another Self (2022) – Fikret (Fiko)

• Tuzak (Trap) (2022–Present) – Güven Gümüşay

New Netflix Series: "Lovers Anonymous" (2025)

In 2025, Rıza Kocaoğlu takes on a new role in the Netflix series Lovers Anonymous ("Adsız Aşıklar"). The story revolves around Cem (played by Halit Ergenç), a man who has lost faith in love due to childhood trauma. He runs the "Love Hospital", where people come to heal their broken hearts. However, everything changes when he meets Hazal, a strong believer in love.

Kocaoğlu plays Barış, Cem's loyal friend, who adds humor and emotional depth to the story. With a stellar cast and a unique premise, Lovers Anonymous is set to be one of the most anticipated Turkish series on Netflix.

A Versatile and Respected Actor

Throughout his career, Rıza Kocaoğlu has demonstrated remarkable talent, taking on roles that challenge and showcase his range. From intense dramas to crime thrillers and romantic stories, he has proven his versatility time and again.

With his latest project, Lovers Anonymous, and a long list of successful performances, Rıza Kocaoğlu continues to be a key figure in Turkish cinema and television. Fans eagerly await what’s next for this talented actor!