"Acting isn’t just a profession—it’s a journey of the soul, and every role helps me grow into who I’m meant to become."
Q. Can you take us through your journey into acting—what inspired you to pursue this path and how did it all begin?
I believe I was raised to be versatile by my family. Since childhood, I’ve always had a passion for both arts and sports. I played many licensed sports like volleyball and basketball, and I also practiced ballet, ice skating, dance, oil painting, piano, and more. My family encouraged me to explore these different activities and discover what truly inspired me. They’re the ones who taught me to live life to the fullest.
I knew I had a passion for acting from a very young age. I loved watching movies and reading novels, and I was always analyzing the characters and the stories. I joined the drama club at my elementary school, and drama quickly became my favorite class and my favorite hobby. Over time, that childhood hobby grew into something much bigger. Acting is now not just my passion, but also my profession.
Q. Winning both 'Best Model of Turkey' and 'Best Model of the World' in 2017 was a significant achievement. How did these titles impact your transition into the acting industry?
I had been following the Best Model competitions since I was a child, and I saw how they opened doors for so many people, giving them the opportunity to start careers in modeling or acting. I always hoped that this competition would also open a door for me in acting and it did!
After winning first place at Best Model of Turkey 2017, I had the chance to represent Turkey among contestants from 50 countries at the Best Model of the World competition in Paris. I felt incredibly proud to represent my country on a global stage.
I was also very excited! Because you have to be at least 18 to apply, I was in a rush to send in my application the day I turned 18—just one day before the deadline. At first, I didn’t tell my parents I had applied because I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. Only my grandmother knew and supported me from the very beginning. She was such a big source of strength for me.
When I found out I had passed the semi-finals and was one of the 18 finalists out of 20,000 people, I finally shared the news with my family. My parents surprised me by coming to Cyprus to watch the competition, and they were just as excited and proud as I was. We’re a very close-knit family that values love, respect, and support, so sharing that moment with them was truly special.
Although I did some modeling like Paris Fashion Week and a major fashion show in Cannes my main goal was always acting. I had already been taking acting lessons even before entering the competition. Winning these titles definitely gave me a platform, but it also reaffirmed my commitment to my true passion: acting.
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Stepping into Burçin Hatun’s world was both a challenge and a privilege, especially since it was one of my first major roles. Burçin is a character who experiences so much internal conflict—she grapples with feelings of love and loyalty, yet also faces betrayal and shifting alliances. I found her journey incredibly rich and complex, and I wanted to do justice to the raw emotions she goes through.
To prepare, I delved into the historical context of the period and tried to understand what motivated Burçin’s choices. I also focused on connecting with her vulnerability and strength, balancing those two sides to make her as real and human as possible.
Q. What languages do you know and how did it help you in the entertainment industry?
Q. Can you take us through your journey into acting—what inspired you to pursue this path and how did it all begin?
I believe I was raised to be versatile by my family. Since childhood, I’ve always had a passion for both arts and sports. I played many licensed sports like volleyball and basketball, and I also practiced ballet, ice skating, dance, oil painting, piano, and more. My family encouraged me to explore these different activities and discover what truly inspired me. They’re the ones who taught me to live life to the fullest.
I knew I had a passion for acting from a very young age. I loved watching movies and reading novels, and I was always analyzing the characters and the stories. I joined the drama club at my elementary school, and drama quickly became my favorite class and my favorite hobby. Over time, that childhood hobby grew into something much bigger. Acting is now not just my passion, but also my profession.
Q. Winning both 'Best Model of Turkey' and 'Best Model of the World' in 2017 was a significant achievement. How did these titles impact your transition into the acting industry?
I had been following the Best Model competitions since I was a child, and I saw how they opened doors for so many people, giving them the opportunity to start careers in modeling or acting. I always hoped that this competition would also open a door for me in acting and it did!
After winning first place at Best Model of Turkey 2017, I had the chance to represent Turkey among contestants from 50 countries at the Best Model of the World competition in Paris. I felt incredibly proud to represent my country on a global stage.
I was also very excited! Because you have to be at least 18 to apply, I was in a rush to send in my application the day I turned 18—just one day before the deadline. At first, I didn’t tell my parents I had applied because I wasn’t sure how it would turn out. Only my grandmother knew and supported me from the very beginning. She was such a big source of strength for me.
When I found out I had passed the semi-finals and was one of the 18 finalists out of 20,000 people, I finally shared the news with my family. My parents surprised me by coming to Cyprus to watch the competition, and they were just as excited and proud as I was. We’re a very close-knit family that values love, respect, and support, so sharing that moment with them was truly special.
Although I did some modeling like Paris Fashion Week and a major fashion show in Cannes my main goal was always acting. I had already been taking acting lessons even before entering the competition. Winning these titles definitely gave me a platform, but it also reaffirmed my commitment to my true passion: acting.
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Q. In Kuruluş: Osman, your character Burçin Hatun experiences internal conflict, betrayal, and shifting emotions. What was it like stepping into her world, and how did you prepare to portray such a layered emotional journey—especially as one of your early acting roles?
Stepping into Burçin Hatun’s world was both a challenge and a privilege, especially since it was one of my first major roles. Burçin is a character who experiences so much internal conflict—she grapples with feelings of love and loyalty, yet also faces betrayal and shifting alliances. I found her journey incredibly rich and complex, and I wanted to do justice to the raw emotions she goes through.
To prepare, I delved into the historical context of the period and tried to understand what motivated Burçin’s choices. I also focused on connecting with her vulnerability and strength, balancing those two sides to make her as real and human as possible.
Beyond the emotional preparation, we also went through a very intensive training process for the project. We read numerous books about Ottoman history, and we had rigorous training in horseback riding, archery, and sword and dagger fighting to make sure we brought authenticity to the characters’ world.
I’ve been acting and training for about eight years now, and I’m still constantly learning. Acting is a journey with no final destination—it’s a continuous process of growth and discovery. I’m grateful for the experience of playing Burçin because it taught me that even in the face of turmoil, there is always room for resilience and transformation.
Q. Can you tell us about your education?
I’ve been acting and training for about eight years now, and I’m still constantly learning. Acting is a journey with no final destination—it’s a continuous process of growth and discovery. I’m grateful for the experience of playing Burçin because it taught me that even in the face of turmoil, there is always room for resilience and transformation.
Q. Can you tell us about your education?
I studied at Bilkent Laboratory and International School in Ankara, Turkey. It’s an international school that really encourages both personal development and academic achievement. During my time there, I completed the PYP program, IGCSE, and IB. The IB program is designed to help students make sense of the complexities of the world and develop the skills and mindsets needed to take responsible action for the future.
In high school, I studied higher level physics, economics, and chemistry because my parents, who are both engineers, initially hoped I would follow in their footsteps. I’ve always been grateful to them for carefully planning the best educational opportunities for me. I believe the education I received helped shape me into a versatile person with a broad perspective on the world.
Q. What are your hobbies?
Q. What are your hobbies?
I have a variety of hobbies that keep my mind engaged and my spirit refreshed. One of my favorite pastimes is reading. I love immersing myself in different worlds and gaining new perspectives through stories.
I also enjoy painting and sketching, which allow me to express myself creatively and unwind after a busy day. In addition, I’m passionate about cooking; experimenting with new recipes and sharing meals with friends brings me so much joy.
I try to stay active with activities like hiking, horseback riding, ice skating, playing soccer, volleyball, basketball and doing yoga, which help me reconnect with nature and maintain a sense of balance.
I have travelled around 20 countries so far, and travelling is truly one of my greatest passions. I love discovering new cultures, trying different cuisines, and learning about the unique customs and traditions of each place. Exploring new environments and meeting people from different backgrounds broadens my perspective and helps me appreciate the rich diversity of our world.
I have travelled around 20 countries so far, and travelling is truly one of my greatest passions. I love discovering new cultures, trying different cuisines, and learning about the unique customs and traditions of each place. Exploring new environments and meeting people from different backgrounds broadens my perspective and helps me appreciate the rich diversity of our world.
Q. How do you stay grounded in the entertainment industry?
I stay grounded by being secure within myself and never comparing myself to others. I truly believe that everyone is unique and special in their own way, so there’s no need to measure yourself against anyone else. I also find that keeping a healthy distance from the constant noise and pressures of the industry, and staying humble free of ego helps me stay true to who I am and what I value.
Q. What role has your family played in your career?
Q. What role has your family played in your career?
My family has played a huge role in my career and in shaping who I am today. They always provided me with a warm environment filled with love, respect, and care. Most importantly, they understood me and encouraged me to follow my dreams. It’s all about the way I was brought up. Because of their support and guidance, I’ve grown into a strong, independent woman who knows her worth and values herself.
Q. How do you handle criticism in your work?
Q. How do you handle criticism in your work?
Respect, one of the most important values in my life. No matter what type of criticism I receive, I always try to respect both myself and the person giving the feedback. When the criticism comes from someone I trust or care about, I take the time to really analyze what they’re saying and respond thoughtfully.
However, I’ve also learned not to let the opinions of people who criticize out of negativity or project their own insecurities onto me affect my confidence. It’s about staying open to constructive feedback, but also protecting my self-worth.
Q. What languages do you know and how did it help you in the entertainment industry?
I speak Turkish and English fluently, and I also know some French. Right now, I’m learning Spanish as well. Knowing different languages has been a big advantage for me, especially when it comes to communicating and working internationally. In fact, my language skills have helped me land opportunities abroad like our recent shoot in India for the “UK to UK” project.
I graduated from BLIS with distinction and then went on to study a double major in Business Management and Social Sciences at King’s. Moving to a new country, living in a dorm, making new friends it was all such an exciting experience. I’m the kind of person who adapts easily to new situations, so everything went smoothly and I was really happy.
I graduated from BLIS with distinction and then went on to study a double major in Business Management and Social Sciences at King’s. Moving to a new country, living in a dorm, making new friends it was all such an exciting experience. I’m the kind of person who adapts easily to new situations, so everything went smoothly and I was really happy.
Although my parents always wanted me to become an engineer, I knew I wanted to be an actor. But I also have a dream of running my own business in the future, so in a way, studying these two fields was a family decision that supported both my goals and theirs.
Q. How do you define success for yourself, and what advice would you give to young people chasing their dreams in acting or modeling?
Q. How do you define success for yourself, and what advice would you give to young people chasing their dreams in acting or modeling?
I believe that dreams without goals are just dreams. For me, success means setting clear goals, staying focused, and always looking for the positive in every situation. It’s about taking things step by step and trusting that what’s meant for you will always find its way to you.
For young people who are passionate about acting or modeling, my advice is to dream big but also be disciplined and persistent. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, and always believe in yourself.
Q. If you could step into the shoes of any character from history or fiction for a day, who would it be and why?
Portraying different characters is very enjoyable.
For young people who are passionate about acting or modeling, my advice is to dream big but also be disciplined and persistent. Don’t let fear or doubt hold you back. Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, and always believe in yourself.
Q. If you could step into the shoes of any character from history or fiction for a day, who would it be and why?
Portraying different characters is very enjoyable.
If I had the chance to step into the shoes of any character from history or fiction, I would choose to be Sabiha Gökçen. As Turkey’s first female combat pilot, Sabiha Gökçen demonstrated immense courage and determination, not only fulfilling her own dreams but also becoming a source of inspiration for many women.
Even for just a day, sharing the same sky with her and experiencing that fearless spirit and sense of freedom would teach me so much. As a woman who puts freedom and the pursuit of dreams at the center of her life, seeing the world through Sabiha Gökçen’s eyes would deeply motivate and inspire me.
Bio
Aslıhan Karalar is a Turkish actress, model, and rising international talent known for her compelling role as Burçin Hatun in Kuruluş: Osman.
A versatile performer with a background in sports, ballet, painting, and music, she discovered her passion for acting early through school drama clubs and a deep love for storytelling.
After winning both Best Model of Turkey and Best Model of the World in 2017, she transitioned into acting with determination, backed by years of professional training. Fluent in Turkish and English, and currently learning Spanish, Aslıhan is also a graduate of King’s College London with a double major in Business Management and Social Sciences.
With over 20 countries explored and a heart full of curiosity, she continues to embrace every challenge with grace, discipline, and a drive to inspire.
Interviewed By Irene Elina Eldhose
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