What about Loveberry that impressed you the most and made you want to take on the project?
Loveberry tells a really deep and layered story. I was especially moved by the internal and external struggles of a strong and educated, urban woman. While Loveberry portrays the fragilities and challenges behind her strong appearance, it also questions the place and role of women in society. This multi-dimensional narrative and the richness of the character were what really drew me in.
İrem Helvacıoğlu: “Loveberry tells a really deep and layered story. I was especially moved by the internal and external struggles of a strong and educated, urban woman.”
How would you describe Zuhal? What concepts did you focus on the most when bringing the character to life?
Zuhal is a woman trying to carry the heavy burden of responsibilities that life has placed on her shoulders. She lost her mother at a young age and, in a way, took over the burden of her family. She’s forgotten herself, dedicating all her energy to her father and siblings. While portraying Zuhal, I thought a lot about sacrifice, responsibility, and the psychological impact of a woman who gives up so much of herself. Exploring her inner journey was incredibly exciting for me.
What did Zuhal and her father’s relationship make you think about in terms of father-daughter dynamics?
Zuhal and her father’s relationship carries a deep sadness. The fact that her father sees her as nothing more than a burden and holds her responsible for her mother’s death makes Zuhal’s burden even heavier. It made me reflect on how formative father-daughter relationships can be, and how a father’s perception of his daughter can shape her entire life. Zuhal’s relationship with her father will definitely give viewers a lot to reflect on.
Can we say that Zuhal is the victim of the family?
İrem Helvacıoğlu: Zuhal is definitely the victim of the family. She’s put her own life aside and dedicated all her energy to her family. She sacrifices herself completely so her siblings can build their own lives. She is like a mother and sister at the same time, always there for them. This selflessness pushes Zuhal into a deep emotional conflict.
How is the set going? How is your chemistry with Aslı İnandık, Selin Türkmen, Ebrar Karabakan, and Şükrü Özyıldız?
İrem Helvacıoğlu: The set is a lot of fun. Working with Aslı, Selin, and Ebrar is a real privilege. They’re all very talented, and their energy keeps the atmosphere on set consistently positive. We work really well together, especially during the emotional scenes. It’s also my first time working with Şükrü, and our chemistry developed very naturally. Everyone is fully dedicated to the project and their characters, which makes the set both enjoyable and professional.
İrem Helvacıoğlu: “Love opens a new window in Zuhal’s life. Her relationship with Tayfun shows her that there may be other options in life.”
Can we say that Zuhal realized that love and a different life are possible for her? What do you think love could teach Zuhal?
İrem Helvacıoğlu: Love opens a new window in Zuhal’s life. Her relationship with Tayfun shows her that there may be other options in life. She begins to rediscover herself and her desires. Love could teach Zuhal, perhaps for the first time in her life, to prioritize herself, to say no, and to build a life of her own.
What sets Zuhal apart from the other characters you’ve portrayed?
İrem Helvacıoğlu: Zuhal is quite different from the other characters I’ve played before. Her inner conflicts, sacrifices, and deep commitment to her family are incredibly intense and dramatic. I’ve never portrayed a character who carries so much responsibility and has lost herself in the process. Zuhal’s emotional depth was one of the key elements that attracted me to this project.
Could you share your thoughts on Loveberry being introduced to the world at MIPCOM? What would you like to say to your audience?
İrem Helvacıoğlu: It’s a great honor to have such a powerful story like Loveberry introduced at MIPCOM. I’m really excited that the hard work we put into this project will reach the global audience. To our viewers in Türkiye and around the world, I would like to say this: This series tells a story that captivates you both emotionally and intellectually. Witnessing the life struggles of different characters and following their growth could inspire you as well.
This interview with İrem Helvacıoğlu was featured in Episode Magazine’s MIPCOM 2024 issue.
