An honest perspective on social media and celebrity life
In the heart of Istanbul’s bustling Yeditepe University, renowned Turkish actor Kerem Bürsin stands in front of a passionate audience of students and academics. It is here, amid the echoes of the academic world, that Bürsin decides to express his concerns about the widespread impact of social networks on society, especially their psychological effects on young people.
The double-edged sword of social media
Known for his roles in popular Turkish TV series such as “Love is in the Air” and “Immortals”, Bürsin is no stranger to fame and the inevitable scrutiny that comes with it. However, it is not the paparazzi lens that worries him, but the pixelated screens that millions of people hold in their hands.
“I’m not addicted to social media,” declares Bürsin, a statement that moves the crowd. He admits its influence in his life, acknowledging that it serves as a powerful tool for celebrities to communicate with their fans. However, it quickly shifts the focus to the darker side of this digital realm, highlighting its potential to alter human psychology, especially among the younger generation. “It doesn’t offer much benefit to young people,” he argues, a sentiment that resonates with recent concerns about the mental health implications of excessive social media use.
Entertainment Industry and Rumor Mill
However, social networks are not the only ones to blame for the psychological pressures faced by celebrities. The entertainment industry itself is a hotbed of rumor and scandal, an aspect Bürsin knows all too well. Recently, rumors surfaced about her relationship with her co-star Hafsanur Sancaktutan. With a wave of disdain, he quashes these speculations, reaffirming their relationship as nothing more than a close friendship. But the mere existence of these rumors underscores the relentless scrutiny celebrities face, both online and offline.
The success and challenges of Turkish TV series
Bürsin’s concerns go beyond his personal experiences, reaching to the heart of the Turkish entertainment industry. The “Golden Boy” television series, despite its initial success, saw a decline in ratings during its second season due to plot twists that did not resonate with viewers. Amazingly, it continues to be successful internationally, airing in more than 40 countries and making inroads into ten African nations. This dichotomy underscores the global appeal of Turkish TV series and their ability to captivate diverse audiences, even when they falter at home.
Muted voices on social media
The intersection of social media and entertainment, however, has its complications. Turkish actress Hazal Kaya found her Instagram account blocked after expressing her support for the Palestinian people, raising questions about the control social media platforms exert over celebrity voices. On the other hand, digital platforms like Netflix have been instrumental in pushing Turkish series like “Sapphire” to a global audience, demonstrating the digital potential of the industry.
In a world increasingly dominated by social media, Bürsin’s reflections offer deep insight into the experiences and challenges of celebrities within the entertainment industry, revealing a story of success, scrutiny and shadow inescapable of social networks.
