Ertugrul star Ayberk Pekcan aka Artuk Bey dies at 51

Ankara: Ayberk Pekcan, Turkish actor who played Artuk Bey role on Dirilis: Ertugrul, has passed away. He was 51.

He had been suffering from lung cancer, according to reports by Turkish media.Ayberk's character is admired by millions of Ertugrul fans due to his alliance with the protagonist.

Ayberk’s role of soldier Artuk Bey, lead character Ertugrul Bey’s loyal companion, was quite popular. Ayberk had a government job before pursuing acting and it was with Ertugrul that he became a household name not only in Turkey, but worldwide, including in Pakistan. 

The actor had shared a lengthy note about his illness few months ago, saying: "Dear friends… The process that started with the doctor I went to with a complaint of back pain has come to this point today. I have lung cancer. The tumor has also spread to the liver and adrenal glands. Unfortunately, this disease did not show any symptoms in its initial stages. The first day of chemotherapy… My biggest support is with my family. So are my friends nearby… I will do my best to regain my health. Keep your health wishes and prayers with you. Stay well…”

The actor's friends supported him well in his constant struggle but he could not win the battle for life against the deadly disease.

Last year, Artuk visited Pakistan and met many notable names from politics and entertainment. 

Dirilis: Ertugrul, comprising 179 episodes, was dubbed in Urdu and aired on PTV in 2020 on the instructions of Prime Minister Imran Khan.

The series is based on Ertugrul, father of Osman I, who founded the Ottoman Empire. It instantly became a massive hit and its characters became household names in Pakistan. The series has attracted millions of views on YouTube.