Zalim İstanbul (Cruel Istanbul) is a gripping Turkish drama series that aired from 2019 to 2020. The series explores the complex dynamics of two contrasting families—one wealthy and powerful, the other modest and struggling. At its core, Zalim İstanbul tells the story of the Karaçay family, a wealthy clan led by Agah Karaçay, whose life is disrupted by the arrival of Seher, a hardworking Anatolian woman, and her children. The family’s peaceful life takes a dramatic turn when they become entangled in a world of secrets, manipulation, and power struggles.
The plot revolves around Agah’s nephew, who, after a tragic accident, is left in a wheelchair. Agah decides to find a wife for his nephew from his ancestral roots, which leads him to Seher’s family. The collision of these two very different worlds creates tension and challenges, as ambition, revenge, and family loyalty come into play, with long-buried secrets emerging to change everything.
The show features strong performances from its cast, including Fikret Kuşkan as Agah, Deniz Uğur as Seher, Mine Tugay as Şeniz, and Ozan Dolunay as Cenk. Their portrayals of complex characters facing moral dilemmas add depth to the series, drawing in viewers with its emotional and unpredictable storyline.
The series was filmed in both Hatay and Istanbul, with scenes in Istanbul mainly set in Kuzguncuk, adding a scenic backdrop to the intense family drama.