By: Kenneth Rivera
A wave of Turkish artists is breaking into the American entertainment industry, bringing a distinct storytelling heritage and a deep passion for cinema and theatre. Among them is Naz Tokgöz, a multi-talented actress and producer who has seamlessly transitioned from working on major productions in Turkey to making a name for herself in the competitive worlds of Broadway and independent film in New York. She is part of a more significant trend of Turkish creatives carving their own space in international entertainment, redefining the boundaries of being a global artist.
Framing a Global Shift: From Turkey to the U.S.
Turkey’s film and TV industry has long been a powerhouse, producing globally recognized series and films that have found audiences across Europe, the Middle East, and beyond. The country’s deep-rooted storytelling traditions and high production values have created a fertile ground for talent, many of whom are now expanding their reach beyond national borders.
Naz Tokgöz is a prime example. She began her career at Medyapım and worked on two Disney+ productions, RU and Nomen. “The industry in Turkey moves fast, and you learn to wear multiple hats. I think that prepared me for the pace of working in New York,” Tokgöz shares. Transitioning to the American entertainment scene required navigating an entirely new system, but her background in a highly competitive industry helped her adapt quickly.
Bridging Two Worlds: Theatre and Film in America
Tokgöz’s versatility shines in how she bridges the gap between theatre and film, bringing a unique depth to each medium. She has been involved in Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, including working with the Manhattan Theatre Club on major productions such as Eureka Day and Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends. Off-Broadway, she has contributed to productions like Vladimir, Dakar 2000, and We Had A World.
“It’s important for me to tell stories that feel universal but still carry the depth and emotion that I grew up with in Turkish cinema,” she explains. This fusion of backgrounds is evident in her latest work, Krizalit (Chrysalis), a film she wrote, directed, produced, and starred in.
Shot in Istanbul, Krizalit was backed by both U.S. and Turkish production companies, making it a cross-cultural project. Initially conceived as a film school thesis project, the film grew into something much more significant, gaining traction on the festival circuit and earning critical acclaim. “We originally planned to shoot the entire film in the US, but once we got the right partners, we realized it made sense to do the entire production there. It was an incredible experience; everything just fell into place.”
A Larger Trend: Turkish Creatives in the U.S.
Tokgöz is not alone in this journey. In recent years, more Turkish filmmakers, actors, and writers have leapt to Hollywood and Broadway, bringing their unique perspectives to American audiences. While Turkish television has already had a significant global impact—thanks to the widespread popularity of Turkish dramas—more creatives are finding opportunities to work directly in the U.S. entertainment system. However, this transition is challenging, from visa and industry gatekeeping to cultural adaptation.
Still, artists like Tokgöz are proving that the bridge between Turkish and American entertainment is growing stronger. Her impressive ability to balance artistry and production embodies what it means to be a global artist today. With her feet in both worlds, Naz Tokgöz represents a new generation of artists whose work transcends borders. Whether on the stage or behind the camera, she’s proving that talent and storytelling are unlimited.
As more doors open for international artists, the presence of Turkish talent in the American entertainment industry is only set to grow. If Naz Tokgöz’s career so far is any indication, the future looks incredibly bright.
Published by Joseph T.
