Sevda Demirel – A Multifaceted Turkish Icon
Sevda Demirel is a name that resonates with versatility and boldness in Turkey’s entertainment landscape. Born on April 3, 1972, in Mönchengladbach, Germany, Sevda’s journey from a Turkish immigrant family to a celebrated figure in music, modeling, and television is a testament to her resilience and charisma. Rising to fame in the 1990s as a model, she captivated audiences with her striking presence, earning the title of “Miss Turkey” in 1992. This accolade opened doors to the world of entertainment, where she carved a unique path blending glamour, music, and unapologetic individuality.
Sevda’s foray into music showcased her fearless spirit. Her debut album, Duy Beni (1997), introduced her sultry voice and pop sensibilities, followed by hits like Kocaman Öpüyorum (2000), which cemented her status as a pop culture sensation. Beyond music, Sevda’s television appearances, including her memorable stint on Big Brother Turkey and various talk shows, revealed her dynamic personality—equal parts charming, candid, and controversial. Known for headline-grabbing moments, such as the infamous on-air incident with Hande Ataizi, Sevda has never shied away from speaking her mind, making her a polarizing yet magnetic figure.
In recent years, Sevda has embraced digital platforms, hosting her YouTube program where she engages with guests and shares unfiltered stories, as seen in her 2025 interview with Ajda Ender. Her personal life, marked by high-profile relationships and bold transformations, including cosmetic surgeries funded by her grandfather’s inheritance, keeps her in the public eye. From her outspoken views on societal changes to her evolving career, Sevda Demirel remains a captivating force, continually reinventing herself while staying true to her roots.
As you prepare to sit down with this Turkish icon, expect a conversation filled with passion, wit, and perhaps a touch of unpredictability—a true reflection of Sevda Demirel’s enduring legacy.
Interview by Ajda Ender
I interviewed Türkiye’s legendary singer and actress Sevda Demirel in Istanbul. We discussed topics ranging from the violation of professional and employment rights in the art world to the violation of cats’ right to life.
Q: What are your thoughts about claims that in the art world, managers give work to some artists while not giving work to others?
Sevda Demirel:
In the art world, artists are not given work, they are treated discriminatorily, people’s desire to work, their efforts, their dreams—everything is taken away from them. Everyone who works hard, who exists in the art world, who struggles like me, wants to work. When the right to work is taken away from them, when jobs are given to a few people, I think it is a great sin. I was discriminated against in the stage world, I was not allowed on stage. I would love for you to watch me perform—those who have seen me perform know how entertaining my stage is. Managers give jobs to a few people. One of these managers is my childhood friend. I will not mention this manager’s name. We have to live somehow, we have to make a living. These managers want only a few people to work. One day, these managers will be sitting at home staring at the walls, waiting for a call. I am trying to build my own life. I make YouTube programs, I earn my living. There are artists who cannot make money and live in poverty.
Q: Why do you think the incident of slapping a female movie actress on a television program years ago is still constantly brought up, and what do you think about it?
Sevda Demirel:
It wasn’t good for me for the new generation to know about it. It damaged my professional dreams. Because this slapping incident wasn’t a plus in my life, it didn’t take me to new heights professionally. It destroyed my dreams. I couldn’t do what I wanted. I was only remembered for this slapping incident, and it became everyone’s entertainment. This slapping incident didn’t benefit me. It prevented me from achieving my own goals. Only people applauded me like a folk hero. I didn’t want applause. I wanted to advance my career. If people would listen to my songs, I would want stage offers. This slapping incident destroyed everything. I live with honor and pride. This slapping incident has been talked about for 24 years. I want my YouTube program to progress. You’re my first guest, Ajda, on my YouTube program. My YouTube program will reach great heights. Life is flowing.
Q: Why does society ignore cats in the summer heat and winter cold when cats are hungry and thirsty? Why is there violence against cats?
Sevda Demirel:
People’s compassion has diminished significantly. These people look but don’t see. We, as a society, are very compassionate. Because society feeds on pain, society loves to feed on painful events—showing this society’s compassion. I don’t like living in a bitter, arabesque world, but there is compassion in society, yet it is compassion not shown to animals. The cruelty done to animals stems entirely from psychological causes. People have brain trauma, neurological and mental illnesses. Those who cannot show their power to people commit violence against animals. Those who commit violence against animals are unaware that they are committing a great sin. Those who cannot give water to animals are not human. The Creator created everything that breathes. No one can destroy breath. They should not touch innocent, helpless beings.
