Netflix renews contract for Turkish series ‘Protector’

ISTANBUL

Netflix has signed the second season contract for its first Turkish original series “The Protector” (Hakan: Guard), which will premiere on Dec. 14. 

The details of the drama, starring Çağatay Ulusoy, were launched at a press conference held at Çırağan Palace on Dec. 4. 

Netflix International Productions Vice President Kelly Luegenbiehl said they made a superhero series in a format that the subscribers had never seen before, adding, “It is very important for us to tell a story about Istanbul. Istanbul and Turkey can be seen in a way never seen before in this format. We worked with an incredible team. We think that audiences all over the world will love this production. We believe that 137 million people in 190 countries will show very positive reactions when they watch this series.” 

Luegenbiehl said that different genres were amalgamated in the series. “Today I announce that the second season will be shot. It will be broadcast with new artists in 2019,” she said. 

Ulusoy said they were thrilled by the scenario, adding, “It impressed me that some elements of our history and rich culture will be a part of the scenario. I want to see myself in this work.” 

Ulusoy plays the role of a superhero called “Hakan” in the series. 

The cast of the production, which includes actors Ayça Ayşin Turan, Hazar Ergüçlü, Okan Yalabık, Mehmet Kurtuluş, and directors Can Evrenol, Umut Aral and Gönenç Uyanık also attended the press conference. 

Actors Engin Öztürk and Boran Kuzum will also star in the new season. 

The series follows the epic adventure of Hakan, a young shopkeeper whose modern world gets turned upside down when he learns he is connected to a secret, ancient order, tasked with protecting Istanbul.