Turkish Stories Shine in the Heart of Hollywood

A STAR-STUDDED AUDIENCE AND GLOBAL APPEAL
The event drew an impressive list of attendees, including renowned Turkish director Zeki Demirkubuz, actors Cem Davran, Miray Daner, Akın Akınözü, İsmail Hacıoğlu, and Dilan Çiçek Deniz, as well as executives from OGM Pictures. Hollywood figures such as Emmy-winning producer Devrim Wellman, Golden Globe President Helen Hoehne, Sony International Content President Shebnem Aşkın, and Grammy-nominated composer Esin Aydıngöz were also present.
Other notable attendees included Anthony Morrone, head of the Los Angeles Fire Department who led earthquake relief efforts in Turkey, and industry professionals such as Rock Jacobs, Susan Baaj, Lizzie Maxwell, Jeff Rice, and Omar Kunbargi. Distinguished members of the Turkish-American community, including Mohamed Hadid and choreographer Nick Pauley, added further prominence to the gathering. The evening’s program was hosted and directed by filmmaker Ecem Lawton.

GLOBAL VOICES SUPPORTING TURKISH CINEMA
Golden Globe President Helen Hoehne expressed her admiration for Turkish storytelling in a heartfelt speech, sharing her personal experiences in Turkey. “No country can match Turkey's hospitality. I visited Istanbul and Bodrum for the first time this summer, and I fell in love with the country. It brings me great joy to see your stories reach international audiences,” Hoehne said.
Barbaros Tapan, president of the Hollywood Turkish Film and Drama Days, emphasized the broader significance of the event. “This is not just about films or TV series. It’s about showcasing the passion, talent, and culture behind these stories,” he remarked, extending special thanks to OGM Pictures for their unwavering support.

Elif Zorlu Tapan, one of the key organizers, highlighted the importance of increasing global visibility for Turkish art and culture. “We need more events like this to share our culture with wider audiences. Presenting Turkish stories at such a prestigious venue in the heart of Hollywood is both a proud moment and a unifying step for the Turkish community,” she said.