In an exclusive interview for our MIPTV 2024 issue, we spoke with Barış Kılıç, a pivotal figure from the sensational series One Love. As the show continues to captivate audiences both domestically and internationally, Barış Kılıç offered insights into his role as Ömer, the evolving dynamics of the series, and the profound impact it has had on viewers worldwide. From the significance of his character’s journey to the global reception of the show, Kılıç sheds light on the success and enduring appeal of One Love.
One Love has consistently ranked among the top 3 most viewed and discussed TV series in Türkiye for the past two seasons. How do you perceive the character Ömer and the series One Love within the context of your career, and what significance does it hold for you?
I can say that the character of Ömer is the project I am at the best point of my career. It is also an honour for me to take part in such a meaningful project. Since it is a series that can give the audience a very good emotional flow, my motivation is very high.
Ömer has made significant changes in his life in the new season, and he is experiencing things he has never experienced before. How do you think this change is affecting Ömer?
Ömer is a character who can reveal the human side of everyone. He shows us that people can make mistakes, have ups and downs, and should not be afraid of trying. The audience can feel the power of love with Ömer.
One Love isn’t like those works where two characters take center stage and side characters simply develop the plot. It shows us the characters’ journeys, their dilemmas, and their decisions. This focus on a well-rounded cast makes the series so strong. What kind of experience is it for you to be part of such a talented group in a multi-character story?
First of all, as you mentioned, the cast was chosen very well. When everyone is professional, you feel safe. The script, directors, and actors are in harmony… Everyone shares the same goal; do their job in the best way possible. When there is such a discipline, success seems inevitable.
Barış Kılıç: “What I noticed in Content Americas’ speech was that they recognised all the characters by their names.”
The series’ international sales are also thriving. Following your speech about One Love at Content Americas, there’s an important event coming up at MIPTV. How are you feeling about MIPTV? Also, what were the most interesting comments you’ve received about One Love from international audiences?
We encountered an incredible interest abroad. Latin Americans are eagerly awaiting the revelations of all the characters. What I noticed in Content Americas’ speech was that they recognised all the characters by their names and were very familiar with the scenes in the series. They were even curious about how we received reactions on the street. In other words, they are as interested and excited as we are!
In its first season, One Love tackled the contrasting worldviews of two families, exploring their interactions and the characters’ reactions to unfolding events. It was the first time we saw the issues in Turkish society so openly in a TV series. Do you think the first season was challenging for audiences abroad in this respect?
One Love may seem like a secular-modern clash, but I don’t think it is challenging for the audience at all. Similar culture clashes occur in all countries of the world because of their beliefs. One Love does not only reflect the difference in culture. It is also a production where people can experience strong confrontations, understand how important the family structure is, understand the importance of empathy and the power of love, and find themselves while spending their time.
This exclusive interview with Barış Kılıç was published in Episode’s MIPTV 2024 issue.
