Nihat Ziyalan, one of the character actors who left his mark on Turkish cinema in the 1960s and 1970s, has passed away. Ziyalan, who had been living in Sydney, Australia for many years, was 90 years old.
Known in Yeşilçam especially for his villain roles, Ziyalan appeared in numerous films. The close friendship and invitation of Yılmaz Güney marked an important turning point in his acting career.
Nihat Ziyalan, an actor, poet, and writer from Adana, began his artistic life in theater. After completing his military service, Ziyalan joined the Adana City Theater, and after this institution closed, he took the stage at the Ankara Art Theater.
The artist, who was also interested in literature, published his first poetry book, “Asık Yüzlünün Biri,” in 1963. Turning to cinema after his theater and literary work, Ziyalan went to Istanbul in 1966 upon the invitation of his childhood friend Yılmaz Güney.
Ziyalan first appeared in front of the camera in the film “At Hırsızı Banuş,” which Yılmaz Güney shot for Mualla Özbek. In later years, the artist became one of the well-known character actors of Yeşilçam and was also remembered for his role as Nedim in the film “Sezercik Aslan Parçası.”
In addition to his acting, Nihat Ziyalan continued his poetry and literary work and was also remembered for his contributions to the field of culture and arts. The artist was awarded the Çukurova Award in 2009 for his contributions to the promotion of Çukurova.
News Source: 12punto
