Acting

Aytek Şayan

Aytek Şayan is a Turkish actor known for his versatile performances across television, film, and theater. Born in 1985 in Izmir, Turkey, Şayan initially pursued a different path by studying Animal Husbandry at Uludağ University before discovering his passion for the performing arts. He later graduated from the Theater Department of Bilkent University’s Faculty of Music and Performing Arts. Shayan gained significant recognition for his role as Lais in the historical drama series Diriliş: Ertuğrul. His television career continued to flourish with notable performances in series such as Kuzgun, where he played the character Ali, and Uyanış: Büyük Selçuklu as Rustem. More recently, he has reached a wider audience through his role in the acclaimed Netflix series Kübra. With a strong foundation in theater, Şayan continues to be a prominent figure in the Turkish entertainment industry, praised for his ability to portray both complex antagonists and relatable characters with depth and authenticity. In addition to his success on television, Şayan has made a name for himself in cinema and digital streaming platforms. He appeared in the 2022 drama film "Bana Karanlığını Anlat" (Tell Me About Your Darkness), showcasing his ability to handle intense, character-driven narratives. His filmography also includes the 2024 film "Su Yüzü" (Water Surface), further establishing his presence in independent Turkish cinema. Aytek Şayan continues to be recognized as one of the most dedicated actors of his generation, even earning the "Best Actor" award at the 2025 Direklerarası Theater Awards for his performance in the play "Ayna".