El Turco: Can Yaman Reveals Intense Life on Set – 'I Slept Two Hours, Then Trained for Six'

Turkish actor Can Yaman takes on the powerful role of Hasan Balaban in El Turco, the highly anticipated international TV series. As fans gear up for the show's debut, Yaman shares what it was really like to film for six intense months in Hungary.

Behind the Scenes: Can Yaman’s Transformation for El Turco

With a massive $28 million budget, El Turco marks Can Yaman’s first major international role. Known for his work in Turkish soap operas and the Italian series Viola come il Mare, this time Yaman steps into something entirely different — and more intense.

Filmed entirely in Hungary, the production lasted six months and required the actor to push his limits physically and mentally. He worked in English for the first time and wore stunning period costumes designed by Carlo Poggioli, the renowned costume designer behind many of Paolo Sorrentino’s films.

Can Yaman: “It Was Like Living as an Athlete”

In an interview with TV Sorrisi e Canzoni, Yaman opened up about the extreme filming conditions:


“When I read the script, I was really moved. It was such an epic and emotional story. The project matched my dream of going international — but the physical demands were huge.

For months, I lived like an athlete. I usually enjoy a glass of whisky or a cigar, but I had to give all that up. I was sleeping only two hours a night, then spent six hours fighting and training hard.”

Despite the intense schedule, Yaman remained committed to delivering a powerful performance — and fans are eagerly waiting to see the result.