Turkish actress Burcu Özberk is officially returning to prime-time television, taking on the lead role in the new NOW series titled Anne Yarısı (Half Mother). Filming for this project is scheduled for the summer in Cappadocia.
Plot and Cast
According to Turkish entertainment journalist Birsen Altuntaş and other local media, Özberk will play Zeynep, a devoted teacher. This character's life changes drastically after a family tragedy forces her into an unexpected fight for her nephew's future.
The series is produced by NTC Medya, one of Turkey's leading production companies, and directed by Semih Bağcı. The script was written by Melis Çivelek, Zeynep Gür, and Merve Göntem, bringing together a creative team known for their emotional family dramas.
Central Theme of the Story
The title Anne Yarısı, which literally translates to 'Half Mother,' reflects the Turkish saying that 'an aunt is half a mother,' and this theme forms the emotional core of the narrative. At the center of the plot is the strong and compassionate teacher Zeynep, whose sister Zeren suddenly dies in Germany. After this tragedy, Zeynep travels to Cappadocia to protect and care for her nephew Ege, left orphaned by his mother's death.
However, her arrival draws her into a fierce family conflict that goes far beyond a simple custody dispute. Turkish media characterizes this story as an emotional drama exploring family loyalty, sacrifice, grief, justice, and the limits a woman is willing to go to protect a loved child.
Cast and Production Preparation
Opposite Burcu Özberk will be Cihanğir Ceyhan, who has been cast as Ali Altaş, one of the key male characters. Although producers have not yet revealed the full details of Ali's role, it is expected that this pair will become the central screen couple of the series. This casting marks the first television collaboration between Özberk and Ceyhan, creating one of the most anticipated new pairings for the upcoming Turkish television season.
Preparations for production are already in full swing. Table reads are set to begin in the last week of July, with principal photography scheduled for August 1st. Production will take place in Cappadocia, one of Turkey's most visually distinctive regions. Known for its chimneys, valleys, cave houses, and historic villages, Cappadocia is becoming an increasingly popular filming location for Turkish dramas due to its unique natural beauty. Producers are expected to use the region not only as a backdrop but also as an important part of the story's atmosphere.
Stardom Careers
For Burcu Özberk, the series Anne Yarısı represents another significant milestone in a career that has made her one of Turkey's most recognizable television stars. She first gained widespread attention through the series Güneşin Kızları, and later starred in popular projects including Afili Aşk, Aşk Mantık İntikam, Ruhun Duymaz, and Kraliçe. Known for her ability to portray determined and emotionally complex characters, she is now taking on another challenging role focused on family, resilience, and responsibility.
Meanwhile, Cihanğir Ceyhan continues to build on the success of productions such as Sıfır Bir, Alev Alev, Camdaki Kız, and Yalı Çapkını, establishing himself as one of Turkey's leading dramatic actors. With an experienced creative team, a powerful family storyline, and the participation of two of Turkey's most popular TV stars, Anne Yarısı is already attracting significant attention ahead of its premiere. As filming prepares to commence in Cappadocia, the drama is expected to be one of NOW's flagship projects in the upcoming television season.