Kurulus Osman actor Serhat Mustafa Kilic found dead at home at 51

 Turkish actor Serhat Mustafa Kilic best known to international audiences for playing Mikhail Kosces in the popular historical drama Kurulus Osman has died at the age of 51.

ISTANBUL: Turkish actor Serhat Mustafa Kilic best known to international audiences for playing Mikhail Kosces in the popular historical drama Kurulus Osman has died at the age of 51.

Kilic was reportedly found dead inside his apartment in Istanbul’s Kagithane district on September 5. According to the report, his friend Ozlem E. discovered him sitting motionless on a chair in one of the rooms and immediately contacted emergency services.

His friend told police that she had been trying to reach the actor since September 3. In her statement she reportedly said that Kilic had been dealing with lymphatic cancer.

Emergency personnel responded to the apartment but the actor was found unresponsive. An initial examination reportedly found no visible signs of physical assault or injuries on his body.

However police have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding his death. Authorities have sent the actor’s body to a hospital for an autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.

Kilic had a long career in Turkish theatre, television and cinema. He began his professional artistic journey in 1998 through theatre before appearing in a number of well-known Turkish productions.

He became familiar to audiences through his roles in popular historical and television dramas, including Kurulus Osman, Soz and Mehmed: Fetihler Sultani. His work in Turkish television helped establish him as a recognizable supporting actor.

Beyond television, Kilic also appeared in films. His movie Kuzu was reportedly honored at the Cannes Film Festival in 2014 adding an international achievement to his acting career.

The news of his death has prompted attention among fans of Turkish historical dramas particularly viewers who followed Kurulus Osman. The series has gained a large international audience in recent years including viewers across South Asia and the Middle East.

While preliminary examinations did not indicate signs of an apparent physical attack authorities have not yet announced a final cause of death. The results of the autopsy are expected to provide further information.

Kilic’s death marks a loss for Turkey’s theatre, television and film community. Fans and colleagues are remembering the actor for his work across several successful Turkish productions.

Authorities are continuing their investigation while further details about the circumstances of his death are expected following the completion of the autopsy.