Valley of the Wolves, one of the most phenomenal productions in the history of Turkish television, continues to be discussed for its social impact even years after its finale. Two veterans of the series, Selçuk Yöntem and Zafer Ergin's critical approaches to the project sparked a new debate on social media.
Selçuk Yöntem “It Left Negative Traces on Young People”
The master actor who is remembered for his character ‘Aslan Akbey’ in the series Selçuk Yöntem, In a program he recently participated in, Yöntem drew attention to the sociological effects of the series. While stating that the light it shed on state-mafia relations in the early stages of the project was valuable, Yöntem made a self-criticism:
”The lack of punishment for criminals and the presentation of violence as a solution may have had a negative impact on young people.”
Zafer Ergin: “I quit because it was harmful”
Selçuk Yöntem's exit brought to mind another master name Zafer Ergin’s striking statements made years ago. Ergin, who gave life to the character of ‘Baron Mehmet Karahanlı’ in the series, attributed the reason for leaving the project when he was at the top to his “principles”.
Ergin had used the following statements in an interview he gave just before he started the Arka Sokaklar series:
”I quit because I found it harmful:” “I left the Valley of the Wolves because it led to bad habits and harmed society, and there were very sympathetic financial offers for me to continue.”
”Television is a great weapon:” Stating that his fellow actors criticized his decision to leave due to high earnings, Ergin said, “I have principles. The power of television over society is undeniable, this weapon should be used correctly,” he said, clarifying his stance.
Social Media Divided
The criticisms of the two veteran actors, who met at the same point after years, divided the viewers into two. While some argued that the series was a work of art reflecting the realities of a period, others agreed with Yöntem and Ergin's concerns about “social corruption”.
News Editor Dilek Bozkurt