Actress Aybüke Pusat Removed from TRT Series After Boykot Support, Sparking Wider Controversy

The controversy began when Aybüke Pusat joined several public figures in supporting a consumer boycott initially amplified by CHP leader Özgür Özel. Her social media posts backing the boycott quickly drew criticism, notably from journalist Cem Küçük, leading to pressure on TRT.

TRT responded by announcing the actress's removal from "Teşkilat." Their official justification framed the boycott support not just as a personal opinion but as participation in a politically driven campaign detrimental to the nation's economy and social cohesion. They deemed it unacceptable and inconsistent for someone involved in a TRT production.

The situation escalated when Ali Aydın, the acclaimed screenwriter of TRT Tabii's series "Rumi," publicly defended Pusat. Aydın stated via social media, "Should you ignore the democratic right of the actress in the Teşkilat series and dismiss her due to threats from certain mercenaries, you will be forced to remove one of Tabii's most-watched works from your library. Just a reminder."

TRT General Manager Zahid Sobacı retorted sharply, distancing TRT from Aydın (calling him "this individual" with no current institutional ties) and reaffirming TRT's stance against boycott pressures and what he termed "poisonous language." Shortly after, the "Rumi" series was indeed removed from the Tabii platform.

Aydın fired back at Sobacı, accusing him of censorship, mismanagement, and potentially illegal removal of publicly funded content. He vowed to continue criticizing Sobacı's tenure. TRT confirmed that despite having filmed stock episodes of "Teşkilat" featuring Pusat, the scenario would be revised.

Why exactly was Aybüke Pusat removed from "Teşkilat"?

TRT stated her public support for a consumer boycott contradicted their institutional principles, was part of a politically motivated campaign targeting the economy, and was incompatible with her role in a TRT production.

What led to the removal of the "Rumi" series?

After screenwriter Ali Aydın threatened to have "Rumi" pulled if Pusat was fired, TRT removed the series from its digital platform, Tabii. TRT's General Manager cited the need to resist threats and boycott pressures.

Was the boycott linked to a specific group?

The sources indicate the boycott call gained significant traction after being supported by CHP leader Özgür Özel, and TRT framed the support as aligning with a political campaign.

What are your thoughts on performers facing consequences for their political stances? Does association with a state broadcaster change the expectation? Let us know!

Share this article with others interested in media, free speech, and cultural discussions!