Aşk-ı Memnu, also known as Forbidden Love, is a renowned Turkish drama that has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide. Adapted from the classic Turkish novel by Halit Ziya Uşaklıgil, this gripping series delves into the complex web of relationships, dark secrets, and forbidden desires that unfold in the opulent world of Istanbul's high society.
Adnan (played by Selçuk Yöntem) resides in one of Istanbul's prestigious shore houses along with his two children, his relative's son Behlül (portrayed by Kıvanç Tatlıtuğ), and their French nanny. Everything changes when Adnan crosses paths with Bihter (played by Beren Saat) and finds himself instantly falling in love with her.
Bihter, the daughter of a socialite couple, harbors deep resentment towards her mother, Firdevs (portrayed by Nebahat Çehre), due to her father's death caused by her mother's infidelity. Seeking revenge, Bihter decides to marry Adnan, a wealthy and successful older man, in order to prevent her mother from marrying him. Despite the significant age difference and the objections of Firdevs and Adnan's daughter Nihal (played by Hazal Kaya), Bihter and Adnan eventually tie the knot.
In Adnan's shore house, Bihter initially searches for peace, security, and happiness, but she instead finds herself entangled in a passionate affair. While initially showing no interest in Behlül, who has developed feelings for her, Bihter gradually succumbs to their mutual attraction. Their secret and intense affair begins, causing a ripple effect that impacts every member of the family.
In the TV series adaptation of Halit Ziya Uşaklıgil's renowned work, Forbidden Love (Aşk-ı Memnu), viewers are immersed in a tale of clandestine love filled with twists and surprises. Will Bihter and Behlül find the courage to love each other without fear, guilt, and regret? Will their passion conquer their sense of loyalty? And will betrayal cast a shadow over their innocence?
These questions form the foundation of the gripping storyline, where forbidden desires, intricate relationships, and the consequences of secret love affair unfold, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating each twist and turn.
Bihter is a stunning and enigmatic young woman whose beauty and charm captivate those around her. Despite being married to Adnan Ziyagil, she becomes deeply entangled in a forbidden love affair with her husband's nephew, Behlül. Bihter struggles with her internal conflict between her desire for true love and her duty as a wife, leading her down a path of deceit and self-destruction.
Behlül is Adnan's handsome and charismatic nephew, who falls under the spell of Bihter's allure. Despite knowing the consequences, Behlül embarks on a passionate affair with Bihter, driven by his own desires and the allure of forbidden love. As the story progresses, Behlül faces inner turmoil and wrestles with guilt over his actions, leading to profound emotional consequences.
Adnan is a wealthy businessman and the husband of Bihter. He is initially portrayed as a loving and devoted husband, unaware of the turmoil brewing within his own family. Adnan's character undergoes significant development throughout the series as he confronts the shocking truths and betrayals that unfold around him, testing his loyalty and love for Bihter.
Firdevs is Bihter's conniving and ambitious mother, driven by her insatiable desire for wealth and social status. She manipulates situations and people to ensure her own interests are served, often at the expense of her daughter's happiness. Firdevs becomes a key antagonist in the series, perpetuating a toxic environment and contributing to the unfolding tragedies.
Nihal is Adnan's innocent and kind-hearted daughter from a previous marriage. She possesses a pure and naive outlook on life, making her vulnerable to the complexities and manipulations surrounding her. Nihal forms a bond with Bihter and is unknowingly entangled in the love triangle, facing heartbreak and emotional turmoil as she discovers the truths that lie beneath the surface.
Beren Saat as Bihter
Kivanc Tatlitug as Behlul
Selcuk Yontem as Adnan
Nebahat Cehre as Firdevs
Hazal Kaya as Nihal
Batuhan Karacakaya as Bulent
Nur Fettahoglu as Peyker
Zerrin Tekindor as Deniz
Recep Aktug as Hilmi