'The Turkish Detective' will launch later this year on BBC iPlayer and TV channels.
The BBC has acquired the new Turkish/English crime thriller The Turkish Detective for BBC iPlayer and its TV channels. This eight-part series, adapted from Barbara Nadel’s best-selling Inspector Ikmen novel series, was secured from Paramount Global Content Distribution.
Set in modern-day Istanbul, the series stars Haluk Bilginer (Baba), Ethan Kai (Killing Eve), and Yasemin Kay Allen (The Usual Suspects). It is produced by Turkish production company Ay Yapim and distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution.
The Turkish Detective follows Inspector Çetin Ikmen (Bilginer), his partner Detective Mehmet Süleyman (Kai), and Detective Ayşe Farsakoğlu (Allen) as they navigate the complexities of solving crimes. Each story is deeply rooted in Istanbul’s diverse culture and history, set against the backdrop of contemporary Turkey’s bustling life.
Ben Schiffer, writer and executive producer, said: “From the moment I opened Barbara Nadel’s novel, I fell in love with the unique, iconic character of Inspector Ikmen. A beacon of hope and humour in a dark, difficult world, I’m so delighted that he and our show, a blend of emotionally-charged mystery and family drama, has found a home at the BBC.”
Sue Deeks, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition, added: “Not only does The Turkish Detective provide a compelling, multi-layered crime thriller, but is set in stunning Istanbul, a vibrant contemporary city that also reflects the cultural influences of a rich and varied historical past – it’s a truly fascinating combination.”
The series is written and executive produced by Ben Schiffer (Skins) and directed by Niels Arden Oplev (The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo), who also serves as an executive producer. Additional executive producers include Kerem Çatay and Claire Sowerby-Sheppard. The Turkish Detective is slated to launch later this year on BBC iPlayer and TV channels.
