Türkiye's Tims&B Productions has built a reputation for producing top-of-the-line Turkish Dramas, and with Valley of Hearts (Siyah Kalp), the tradition of excellence continues.
In this gripping family drama, Sumru’s past comes back to haunt her when the twins she abandoned as newborns, Nuh and Melek, arrive in Cappadocia to confront her. Now married to a wealthy tourism magnate, Samet Şansalan, with children of her own, Sumru tries to deny their existence—but the truth begins unraveling fast. As Melek catches the eye of Samet’s son, Cihan, and Nuh crosses paths with Sevilay, the family dynamics shift. With old secrets resurfacing and a dangerous enemy lurking in the shadows, there is no shortage of drama in the Şansalan mansion.
With its well-rounded cast, breathtaking backdrop of Cappadocia, and interwoven story of family secrets, unexpected romances, and long-buried revenge, Valley of Hearts has quickly delivered on its promise to keep viewers locked to their screens, eagerly awaiting every twist and turn.
For this special issue, we chatted with the shining cast of the series about their fan-favorite new series, filming in the beautiful Cappadocia, and much more.
Read along for our exclusive interview with Valley of Hearts' Aras Aydın (Nuh), Hafsanur Sancaktutan (Melek), Leyla Tanlar (Sevilay), and Burak Tozkoparan (Cihan).
For those unfamiliar with Valley of Hearts, could you share an overview of the series and describe your character?
Aras Aydın: Valley of Hearts is a series with a strong story, bringing together many talented actors. The story begins with Nuh and Melek, who were abandoned by their mother as babies, and their journey to find her. But when they arrive in Cappadocia, they find themselves caught up in unexpected love adventures. I play the character of Nuh. Nuh is, in fact, a typical tough guy from the neighborhood. He’s a sturdy young man who grew up in a small town, raised by his grandmother, and he’s very attached to his twin sister.
Hafsanur Sancaktutan: Melek is a girl who stands firmly on her own two feet, perhaps because she had to grow up this way in life. Of course, this brings a certain roughness with it, but there are also things she cares about. She is well-intentioned, has a strong sense of responsibility, and deep down, she wants to believe in the goodness of people.
Leyla Tanlar: Valley of Hearts tells the complex story of family ties and love intertwined with the sharp edge of revenge. Sevilay is a young woman caught between the toxic bond with her mother and her own desires. Although she appears naive and fragile from the outside, she holds immense strength within, but the journey to realizing it will be a difficult one. At every opportunity, she dismisses her own wants to make others happy, but this self-sacrifice will lead her to confront herself once she encounters love.
Burak Tozkoparan: Our story begins with twin siblings Nuh and Melek, who come to Cappadocia following in the footsteps of their mother, Sumru, who abandoned them at a young age and married a wealthy businessman. Sumru, who became a mother at a young age, left her twin children Nuh and Melek with their grandmother right after their birth and ran away. Shortly after, she married Samet, a wealthy businessman from Cappadocia, and gave birth to Esat and Harika. Years later, following their grandmother's advice, Nuh and Melek come to Cappadocia. However, their mother does not want them, and they face a struggle for survival. At the mansion they arrive at, Nuh meets Sevilay, while Melek crosses paths with Samet's son from his first marriage, Cihan. I play the character of Cihan.
Cihan lost his mother at a young age. After his father remarried, he was somewhat alienated by his family and sent to boarding school. He has lived alone from a very young age, learning life on his own. Later, he moved to Berlin, where he built a new life for himself and reached good positions in his career. Cihan visits his family occasionally. Although his family appears to be so large and beautiful, there is no real love or sincerity within. For this reason, Cihan does not enjoy being part of the family or spending time with them, but out of obligation, he accepts staying in Cappadocia. Most importantly, he falls in love with Melek, and because of his love for her, he stays in Cappadocia.
Cihan is generally a kind-hearted, optimistic, understanding, and empathetic person, but he also has a dark side. Sometimes, because he acts aggressively, he makes decisions without thinking. While I’m sure he usually acts thoughtfully, there are times when he fails to be understanding about major things, and that’s when we see unexpected behavior from Cihan. It’s as if he has two sides—a dark side and a more optimistic, bright side.
You received many offers this season but decided on Valley of Hearts. What was it about this series that made you want to be a part of it?
Aras Aydın: I was very impressed when I read the story. We had previously worked together with our screenwriter, Yıldız Tunç, and our production company, Tims&B, together on the series, Deception. She is a writer whose work I know well and trust. I also enjoy reading her novels very much; she has a very strong writing style. When I first read about Nuh, I said to myself, 'I want to play this character!' 😊
Hafsanur Sancaktutan: I was deeply moved by the story when I first read it. I was especially touched by the sibling bond between Melek and Nuh. They have no one else but each other, and they set out on a journey to find their mother. In the midst of uncertainties, they keep holding on to one another. I'm very excited for the upcoming episodes as well. I'm so glad for Valley of Hearts.
Leyla Tanlar: First of all, I thought I would really enjoy portraying Sevilay's inner journey and her process of realizing that the true power lies within her. The love-hate relationship with her mother is also a very complex example of human and family relationships, and diving deep into that while acting has been very rewarding. Additionally, having the chance to work with dear friends again has been one of my greatest joys. From the very first day Aras and I read the script together, we were so excited thinking about what we could create in front of the camera that we could hardly sit still.
Burak Tozkoparan: Before agreeing to Valley of Hearts, I received and read many scripts. The story I felt the closest connection to was Valley of Hearts, because certain factors played an important role for me. Cihan's having lived in Berlin, and the fact that I was reading this script while returning to Istanbul from visiting my cousin in Berlin, gave me a feeling that this project could work. For some reason, it feel like I already know Cihan. Since I know Berlin, Istanbul, and now, having learned about Cappadocia's atmosphere, combining these places helped me a lot in shaping the character of Cihan.
Beyond that, we have a very valuable and talented team made up of wonderful people, which was an important factor for me. Another very significant reason for me was that the script was written by Yıldız Tunç. She was also the writer for my first project, Paramparça (Broken Pieces), so that connection was very meaningful to me. Also, working with Tims&B and Show TV was going to be a brand-new and exciting choice. It was overall a valuable decision for me.
I was deeply moved by the story when I first read it.Hafsanur Sancaktutan
Do you have a favorite scene or a scene you’re most proud of when looking back at what you have filmed so far for Valley of Hearts?
Aras Aydın: I believe I'm an actor who prefers to leave all feedback about myself to the viewers. I don’t comment on myself. I like to hear positive or negative comments from others, and I think I'm an actor who thrives on that. There’s a scene in the first episode where Hafsanur and I are perched on the couch like two doves after losing our grandmother. It’s a scene where we talk about moments from our grandmother's time, and I still can’t get over that scene. I still watch it because I enjoy it so much. Uluç was also very good with the direction; he understood our state and communicated what we needed to convey through our body language. There’s also a scene where I give a bracelet to Leyla on a bridge, and I really love that scene too. It feels like it makes you relive the feeling of first love.
Hafsanur Sancaktutan: The first scene that comes to mind is when we meet with Cihan (Burak) under the rain in the first episode.
Leyla Tanlar: I can say the moment I am most proud of with Sevilay is when she confronts the whole family and demands answers. No matter how much life forces her to suppress her feelings, she is a ticking time bomb. I can't wait for her journey as she finds herself and realizes that the true power lies within her.
Burak Tozkoparan: Actually, I’m happy with all the scenes I’ve played so far. But of course, the first meeting scene with Melek holds a special place for me. It’s a very important and major scene both from Cihan’s perspective in the story and from Burak’s perspective on the story. Also, I had never filmed a scene under the rain before, and that feeling was quite enjoyable as well.
What is it like filming on location in the beautiful Cappadocia?
Aras Aydın: I had never been to Cappadocia before. I’ve heard a lot about it from my friends who have visited multiple times. My mother is from Kayseri, but I never had the opportunity to come here. The splendor of the balloons taking off is very impressive. I really enjoy the food. I think Cappadocia is a label, a brand that introduces Turkiye to the world. Working and living here are both very enjoyable.
Hafsanur Sancaktutan: It's truly a mesmerizing place. It has a completely unique atmosphere. The energy of Cappadocia fits perfectly with the series. It definitely makes working here a completely different experience.
Leyla Tanlar: Cappadocia is truly a unique place... The natural beauty and mystical atmosphere here form the foundation of the texture of our story. Every morning, you wake up inside a fairy tale. And every night, when you look up at the sky, you're in the presence of the most magical moonlight in the world...
Burak Tozkoparan: Cappadocia is truly an incredible place, absolutely enchanting. Sometimes I wonder how I didn’t come here before, all these years. You don’t get as affected just by seeing pictures because, for example, I used to think the fairy chimneys were just one specific location. But every part of this place is amazing; each area feels like a new adventure. Since I’m here with my dog, we’re constantly in exploration mode. Anyone following us on Instagram has probably seen our discoveries. I try to share the beautiful spots and moments as much as I can. So, it’s a really enjoyable place to be.
One thing that’s very important to me is that you can actually live here in an organized way, and while doing so, you can meet all your needs. You can work, exercise, and still have time for yourself. I can spend quality time here because there’s no traffic. There’s also less people here, which naturally speeds up and enhances everything you do.
Cappadocia is truly an incredible place, absolutely enchanting.Burak Tozkoparan
The series tells the story of twins who their mother abandoned at birth. If you find out today that your mother abandoned you, what would be your revenge plan, if any?
Aras Aydın: I’m not a vengeful person. There would have to be very specific examples to harbor a feeling of revenge against someone. But even thinking about this in relation to a mother is challenging. Being without a mother or growing up without one is a very difficult feeling. When it comes to 'mother,' my mom is my red line. My entire family and friends know this. There is nothing I wouldn't do for my mom. So, if there were such an example, I would probably seek accountability as well.
Leyla Tanlar: It seems like something that can't truly be understood without experiencing it... I think I would avoid entering such an intense tunnel of hatred like revenge, especially for the sake of my own well-being. But before thinking about revenge, I would probably focus on finding out the reason. Whether I would want to empathize after learning the reason or not—that's complicated...
If you had to play someone else's character, who would it be and why?
Aras Aydın: Believe me, I love my role so much that no other character comes to mind. I think everyone has found their own role and is shining in it. I believe that every role suits our men and women uniquely, and it's beautiful when different talents bring each character to life. That's why I wouldn’t want to play any other role besides Nuh. When I first read about Nuh, I couldn't see anything else.
Leyla Tanlar: Definitely Canan! I have so much fun watching her. I can see how much Gözde enjoys playing her as well...
Burak Tozkoparan: Honestly, I could say everyone. If I have to give an answer, I think all the characters have been written with such care and depth, and everyone has brought their own style and personality to their roles, elevating them to another level that I feel like it’s best for everyone to stay with their own character. I mean, if I were to play a role that I really liked, I might not be able to perform it as beautifully as they do. Don’t you think? I believe that everyone’s color, style, even their fingerprint, is unique in a way. So, it's much more enjoyable to admire them from the outside.
There would have to be very specific examples to harbor a feeling of revenge against someone.Aras Aydın
Do you share any similarities with your character in real life?
Aras Aydın: There have been moments when I got angry in the heat of the moment, but I've learned to control myself in this regard because I think it's harmful. Other than that, I struggle to speak when I'm excited or in love. It was the same when I first met Melis(his wife). I always try to choose the right words. Sometimes I succeed, sometimes I don’t, but often words hardly slip out of my mouth. In that sense, Nuh and I are similar. But I still don't get angry as easily as Nuh does! 😊
Leyla Tanlar: Sevilay's tendency to suppress her own feelings and her desire to make others happy at every opportunity is a mistake I also fall into. Of course, we should make our loved ones happy, but we should also love ourselves a lot... The important thing is to be able to draw our boundaries well. I would say I'm also trying to find this balance like Sevilay...
Burak Tozkoparan: I always say this: in the end, all the characters I try to create come from me, Burak. Of course, I try to reflect parts of my own life into my characters. I try to give each one a unique attitude. There’s a lot of me in Cihan, actually. As I mentioned in the first question, since I know Berlin and Istanbul well and have spent a lot of time there, I try to impose the 'Burak' from those places onto Cihan. Cihan already helps me in that regard.
I also have a quick temper, but sometimes I regret it, so I try to be careful. In that sense, I’m like Cihan. When something major happens, I can overreact. Other than that, I live a calm and quiet life like Cihan. Well, Cihan’s life isn’t that quiet, but at least in terms of personality, he has a clear and calm demeanor, and I relate to that.
The important thing is to be able to draw our boundaries...Leyla Tanlar
Tell me a little bit about working on set. The cast seems to have great chemistry and energy on screen—does that same vibe carry over behind the scenes?
Aras Aydın: Most of us already knew each other beforehand. I knew Esra before, and Leyla is a friend I really love. I had also met Burak Tozkoparan before. The same goes for Genco. This familiarity definitely reflects on the screen. Everyone is trying to do their best, which is why I believe this comes across very easily on screen. We have a great time working on set. Even when we’re shooting very dramatic and heavy scenes or working long hours, no one feels tired or wants to give up. We’re always discussing how we can do better and what more we can add; everyone is working to give their best.
Hafsanur Sancaktutan: Yes, we’re good friends off set as well. We enjoy spending time together.
Leyla Tanlar: I might be the wrong person to answer this question because I'm in a set filled with friends I love very much. My partner is one of my favorite people in life, my other co-star has been like my brother for 10 years, and with most of my other co-stars it is our second job together, including our dear director, Ali Balcı. So, I can say that we work harder to not reflect our intimacy in front of the camera based on the relationships and emotional states of our characters...
Burak Tozkoparan: We really enjoy working together. I know these are such cliché phrases, but truly, there are so many different characters on set that it feels like a wonderful feast. It’s like we have every kind of dish, every kind of appetizer, and every kind of drink. And because of that, the conversations and the atmosphere at the table are really enjoyable. You get to savor both the food and the company, so that’s how I’d summarize the situation.
Your [Aras & Hafsanur] dialogue and body language make you look like real siblings. What was the process of building this dynamic, and are there moments when you improvise?
Aras Aydın: We talk about this a lot with Hafsa. Sometimes we make small additions at the beginning or end of our scenes for the same reactions. I feel very lucky to have Hafsa as my co-actor. She is very open to everything, doesn’t reject ideas, and can collaborate effectively. That's why I'm particularly happy to be playing a twin story with Hafsa. Over time, this harmony began to form naturally, like drinking water at the same time or taking a step together. At one point, it even spilled over into our real lives; we both threw something in the trash at the same time and bumped our hands! 😊 This has become a cute story in our work. These spontaneous similarities make us smile. This also resonates with the audience; it has caught people’s attention, and that’s what’s important for us.
Hafsanur Sancaktutan: It’s a bit about trusting the actor in front of you. I’ve trusted Aras from day one, and we both allowed ourselves to rely on each other. As a result, we became harmonious twins, fighting together, having each other’s back.
When Nuh and Sevilay meet for the first time, there is an immediate attraction between them. In this context, do you believe in love at first sight?
Aras Aydın: I definitely believe in love at first sight, and I’ve experienced in my own life that this kind of love brings great happiness. 😊 I think the love between Nuh and Sevilay is also love at first sight. Two wounded hearts recognized each other at first glance. I believe they have many stories to share with each other.
Leyla Tanlar: I don’t believe in it; I know it sounds bold, but I don't think any woman can fall in love with someone at first sight. Love, respect, and compassion are things that are understood as you get to know someone's heart. I fall in love with the heart of the person I love first. I believe that Sevilay also falls in love with Nuh's heart.
When you are not on set, what are some of the activities you enjoy the most?
Aras Aydın: When I'm not on set, I usually spend my time watching something or reading in my room. Right now, I’m reading our writer’s novel 'Osman.' Besides that, I brought my guitar with me and practice a bit from time to time. I’m very fond of console games and play them, but when I’m not on set, I usually read the script. I think about what I can do in the upcoming episodes. I feel more comfortable when I’ve prepared in advance. I'm not the kind of actor who looks at the scene the night before or a few hours ahead and then gets ready. Working days in advance makes me feel more grounded on stage. That’s why I usually spend my time like this.
Hafsanur Sancaktutan: My new home is Cappadocia, so I'm far from Istanbul. I've started painting here. I exercise and explore the surroundings. If I have a longer break, I go to Istanbul to see my loved ones.
Leyla Tanlar: We don't actually have many free days; on the days that we do, I mostly dedicate them to working out. Recently, I've started studying Latin Literature again, which was my favorite subject in high school. I'm taking classes during breaks and on my days off, and it's been very refreshing.
Burak Tozkoparan: I've been in this industry for 10 years, and for 10 years, I’ve been asked this question. My answer is pretty classic. I play the drums and guitar, and spend time with my dog, Krek. I work out. I actually have a very routine life that I really enjoy, and I continue to follow that routine.
Is there a lesson or message you hope your character gives fans?
Hafsanur Sancaktutan: Be as stubborn as Melek, hold on, and never give up!
Leyla Tanlar: Let no emotional void push you to sacrifice your own happiness, health, and dreams to the extent that you forget about them. Sacrifice is beautiful, but if it leads you to disregard yourself, it starts to become a poison that eats away at you. Always hold the reins of your own life. Saying 'no' is difficult, but it is the greatest strength in life... As I've said before, enjoy making your loved ones happy, but love yourself even more.
Burak Tozkoparan: My character is someone who truly has no bad intentions, neither inside nor out, and doesn’t wish harm upon others. However, when it comes to his family and loved ones, he’s a character who will do whatever it takes, and sometimes even more than necessary. Because of this, some of the decisions he makes for his family may hurt or affect others more than necessary. I try to portray my character based on the things I believe in internally. Whatever is written for me, whatever is written for my character, I do my best to reflect it in the best way possible.
For me, it’s not necessary for my character to be 100% good, right, or wrong. As long as there’s a story I can hold on to, that’s enough for me.
Lastly, for those who still need some convincing to tune in, what would you say to them to convince them not to miss “Valley of Hearts”?
Aras Aydın: We are shooting a serious drama right now, but we also have very sweet, heartwarming scenes. The subject we are dealing with is a very serious one, a deep wound. It’s the story of abandonment, growing up alone, growing up without family members, or being raised by a grandparent but never knowing one’s mother—something many people may have experienced in their lives. However, as these characters pursue their mother, life pulls them in a direction where they might end up meeting the loves of their lives.
Hafsanur Sancaktutan: If you're reading this interview, it’s clear that you closely follow Turkish series and watch Turkish dramas. Our story takes place in a magical setting, in Cappadocia, and it has a strong cast with a powerful story centered on family relationships and love. It will open new doors for you to delve into Turkish productions.
Leyla Tanlar: The story of those who try to solve the complexity of human relationships and family ties through love…
Burak Tozkoparan: Watch our series! There is a lot of hard work and dedication both in front of and behind the camera. We are a team that believes in what we do, and everyone is fully committed, striving for the best. I believe we’re already getting a great response. I hope it continues to grow like an avalanche. If they continue watching, or if they’re just starting, I can guarantee they won’t be disappointed. So, there’s no reason to miss it!
thanks Aras Aydın, Hafsanur Sancaktutan, Leyla Tanlar, Burak Tozkoparan
thanks Tims&B Productions
thanks Apostrophe Entertainment