Turkish soap operas, true cultural phenomena, captivate millions of viewers around the world. Their growing popularity is sparking passionate debate and raising questions about their potential influence beyond entertainment. In 2025, the impact of these productions on demographics is becoming an inescapable subject of analysis. How do these captivating narratives shape cultural and social perceptions? What effects might they have on family dynamics and life choices? This article explores the surprising and sometimes alarming implications of this global television trend, shedding new light on a rapidly expanding phenomenon.
Success and International Impact of Turkish Series
Turkish series such as “Love is in the Air”, “Renacer”, “Mujer”, “Hermanos”, “Erkenรงi Kus: Pรกjaro soรฑador”, “Te alquilo mi amor” and “Dolunay” are enjoying resounding success worldwide. In Spain, they dominate thematic and main channels, captivating a wide audience. Their popularity also extends to Latin America, Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, where they captivate with their captivating plots and charismatic characters. In Russia, however, one organization has expressed concern about their cultural impact, pointing to an idealization of the “perfect man” that could influence traditional values. This controversy underlines the significant cultural impact of these productions beyond Turkey’s borders.
Controversy in Russia: The Impact of Turkish Series on Family Values
The Russian organization “Veteranos para Rusia” recently expressed concern about the influence of Turkish TV series on Russian society. According to them, these productions convey an idealized image of man, out of step with traditional Russian family values. Ildar Reziapov, director of the organization, has met with government officials to discuss banning these series, claiming that they are contributing to a demographic crisis. He argues that the appeal of these fictional characters distracts Russian women from their compatriots, leading to worrying social and family consequences. This situation has led to a formal request to the Ministry of Culture to restrict their broadcasting.
Political reactions and alternative proposals in Russia
Faced with the growing popularity of Turkish series, political voices in Russia are criticizing their influence. Deputy Vitali Milรณnov denounces historical falsification in these productions, particularly those about the Ottoman Empire, which he accuses of masking violence with romantic narratives. At the same time, MP Sardana Avksรฉntieva suggests creating series featuring attractive Russian men to counter the appeal of Turkish characters. These initiatives could influence the public perception of Turkish series in Russia, reinforcing the debate on cultural identity and traditional family values in the face of foreign influence.
