Meltem Cumbul is a renowned Turkish actress born on November 5, 1969, in Izmir, Turkey. Known for her powerful performances across both cinema and television, Cumbul boasts a versatile career. Her parents hail from Aksehir and Izmir, and she has Circassian roots.
Cumbul began her education at Izmir Turkish College in 1983 and graduated from Ata College in 1987. She went on to study drama at Mimar Sinan University's State Conservatory, graduating in 1991.
Her impressive career spans over 16 films, including 'Head-On' (Duvara Karşı), which won the Golden Bear award at the Berlin Film Festival, and six TV series, one of which is 'Yılan Hikayesi', recognized as one of the most-watched TV series in Turkish history. She has also taken part in various musical and theatre productions, including 'Smokey Joe's Cafe' and 'Taming of the Shrew'.
Throughout her film career, Cumbul has showcased her talent in a variety of roles. In 2000, she received the Best Actress award at the Ankara International Film Festival for her role in 'Duruşma'. In 2003, she won the Best Actress award at the Golden Orange for 'Abdülhamit Düşerken', and in 2006, she received the Fipresci Best Actress award for 'Gönül Yarası'.
On television, she starred in a series of successful projects such as 'Yılan Hikâyesi', 'Beşik Kertmesi', and 'Muhteşem Yüzyıl'. Her most recent appearance was in the 2021 series 'Kırmızı Oda' as a guest actor.
Cumbul's skills and dedication to her craft have earned her several national and international awards at film festivals, including Palm Springs, Queens, Ankara, and Antalya's Golden Orange. She is not just known for her acting prowess, but she also made her mark as a presenter when she co-hosted the Eurovision Song Contest with Korhan Abay in 2004.
Cumbul's successful and dynamic career is a testament to her dedication and talent, earning her a rightful place among the leading figures in Turkish film and television. Her compelling performances, charisma, and contribution to the industry have made her a much-respected and celebrated artist in Turkey and beyond.