Deniz Uğur Steps Into the Tension Between Bahar Şahin and Mine Tugay

Bahar Şahin recently revealed that she was subjected to mobbing and psychological abuse while filming the series Zalim İstanbul. Although she didn’t mention any names, speculation quickly spread across social media, pointing fingers at her co-star Mine Tugay. Tugay was quick to respond, firmly denying the accusations. Amid the controversy, another cast member, Deniz Uğur, had publicly supported Bahar Şahin back then, even warning, “Don’t mess with this girl, or else.” Now, Uğur has come forward again—this time, with even stronger words.

In a recent interview, Bahar Şahin spoke about being subjected to insults and abuse on the set of Zalim İstanbul, without naming anyone directly. As rumors swirled, the spotlight turned to Mine Tugay, who dismissed the claims as completely false. The growing controversy also drew in fellow cast members Deniz Uğur and Sera Kutlubey.

Deniz Uğur Slams Mine Tugay

Taking a firm stance in support of Bahar Şahin, Deniz Uğur stated, “Everyone in our industry knows the truth. We know which actors bully staff, what kind of toxic individuals we’ve worked with, and the psychological abuse we've endured. Yet nothing is ever done about it. Instead, other actors and crew members are expected to ‘deal with it.’”

Uğur went on to say, “Bahar didn’t have any connections backing her. She’s not sneaky—what you see is what you get. Don’t drag this out and push me to speak more, because industry criticism is my favorite thing, and unlike others, I’m not afraid to talk.”

Fellow castmate Sera Kutlubey also weighed in, expressing her support for Mine Tugay. “I’ve known her for years. I know her heart, I know her soul. I’ve witnessed her endure countless injustices. You’re so loved,” she wrote in a post.

Bahar Şahin Alleges She Was Called “Low-Class”

Bahar Şahin shared shocking claims about her time on set, stating she was constantly belittled. “She called me ‘varoş’ (slang for low-class). She came at me, and I was trembling with fear. No one stood by me—they just said, ‘You’re young, learn to handle it.’ I’m someone’s daughter too. They gave her the power to slap me. When she came at me, I shut the door in her face. The door hit her. She started yelling ‘Violence!’ And I told her, ‘There’s been violence for 25 weeks—why are you yelling now?’”

Mine Tugay Responds on Social Media

Mine Tugay responded to the allegations with a statement on social media:
“Hello everyone. Those who know me know that the tone and words I’m accused of using are completely unlike me. When my friends told me about the false accusations, I was honestly saddened. Even though I clearly remember the truth, being blamed for things I never said feels disrespectful and like a targeted attack. So, no—I don’t believe these comments were made with good intentions. Still, I wish everyone well. I know you didn’t want me to stay silent, so this is the first and last time I’ll address this, without hurting or upsetting anyone. Love to all.”