Bozdağ Film has officially unveiled the first photos and behind-the-scenes videos from its highly anticipated historical drama Aşk ve Taht, giving fans their first look at Akın Akınözü as the legendary Anatolian Seljuk ruler Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat I. The release of these images confirms that production on the ambitious historical series has officially begun. More importantly, the first look has dramatically changed the conversation surrounding the project. Before these visuals were released, many viewers had expressed disappointment that Mehmet Bozdağ chose to produce an entirely new historical drama instead of developing a Kuruluş: Osman spin-off. However, the overwhelmingly positive response to Akın Akınözü’s transformation has quickly shifted public opinion, with many fans now expressing excitement for the upcoming series.
Akın Akınözü’s Transformation Impresses Historical Drama Fans
One of the biggest talking points is Akın Akınözü’s complete physical transformation.
Rather than maintaining his modern appearance, the actor spent months preparing for the role by growing his hair and beard. The production team further enhanced his look with carefully designed hair extensions and period styling, creating a commanding warrior-sultan appearance that many fans believe perfectly suits Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat.
The rugged new look immediately reminded viewers of several iconic historical drama characters, including:
- Burak Özçivit’s legendary Season 1 appearance as Osman Bey in Kuruluş: Osman
- Sultan Melikşah from Uyanış: Büyük Selçuklu
- Sencer’s warrior appearance in the same Seljuk-era series
Many fans had previously worried that Akın Akınözü might retain the softer romantic image associated with some of his earlier television roles. Instead, his dramatic historical makeover has exceeded expectations and earned widespread praise across social media.
Why Fans Have Been Waiting for This Look
Interestingly, this transformation fulfills a wish that Turkish historical drama fans have had for several years.
Following the success of Kuruluş: Osman Season 1, audiences repeatedly asked Burak Özçivit to keep his long hair and full beard for future seasons. That never happened.
Later, when Kuruluş: Orhan was announced, many hoped that Mert Yazıcıoğlu would receive a similarly powerful visual transformation to establish a stronger warrior identity for Orhan Bey. Those expectations were never fully realized, and the series ultimately struggled with ratings before ending much earlier than many fans had hoped.
Because of this, many viewers now believe that Bozdağ Film has finally delivered the historical warrior aesthetic they had wanted for years through Aşk ve Taht.
Experienced Directors Lead the New Historical Epic
Another reason for the growing optimism is the creative team behind the project.
The series is directed by:
- Yağmur Taylan
- Durul Taylan
- Cem Toluay
The directing trio has extensive experience with large-scale historical productions, particularly stories set during the Seljuk era. According to early production reports, Mehmet Bozdağ has relied heavily on their creative input for costume design, visual styling, character presentation, and casting decisions.
This collaborative approach has increased confidence that Aşk ve Taht will present a visually rich and historically immersive experience.
Cast Members Share Their Excitement
The enthusiasm surrounding the project extends beyond fans, with several cast members expressing genuine excitement about joining the series.
Akın Akınözü – Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat
Akın Akınözü described Aşk ve Taht as his first major historical drama. He explained that what attracted him most was the script’s focus on human relationships and emotional storytelling alongside important historical events.
Simay Barlas – Melike Hatun
Simay Barlas shared that she felt immediate excitement upon joining the production, especially because much of the cast is working together for the first time.
Ceren Benderlioğlu – Nurcihan
Ceren Benderlioğlu revealed that historical productions have always interested her. She praised the screenplay, describing it as being crafted with exceptional attention to detail.
Ferit Kaya – Celaleddin
Ferit Kaya noted that reading the first episode felt effortless, adding that this is usually a strong sign that a series has a well-written script and compelling narrative.
Merjem Šiljak – Destina
Merjem Šiljak described Aşk ve Taht as the biggest production of her acting career so far and expressed excitement about being part of such a prestigious historical project.
When Could the First Trailer Be Released?
Although Bozdağ Film has not officially announced a release schedule, industry expectations suggest that the first teaser trailer could arrive around the middle of August.
If production continues as planned, Aşk ve Taht is expected to premiere during the final week of September, though viewers should wait for an official announcement from the production team.
More Than a Love Story
The title Aşk ve Taht, meaning Love and Throne, may sound like a romantic drama at first glance.
However, the first promotional materials tell a different story.
Akın Akınözü’s fierce warrior appearance, combined with the production’s emphasis on Seljuk history, suggests audiences can expect:
- Large-scale battle sequences
- Palace conspiracies
- Political rivalries
- Royal succession struggles
- Historical events from the reign of Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat I
- Emotional character-driven storytelling
Rather than focusing solely on romance, the series appears to balance personal relationships with major political and military events that shaped the Anatolian Seljuk Empire.
