BBC acquires "The Turkish Detective" crime thriller from Paramount

The BBC has acquired a new Turkish/English crime thriller "The Turkish Detective", for BBC iPlayer and TV channels. The eight-part series is adapted from the award-winning and best-selling Inspector Ikmen novel series by Barbara Nadel, and was acquired by the BBC from Paramount Global Content Distribution.

The title is written and executive produced by Ben Schiffer ("Skins") and directed by Niels Arden Oplev ("The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo") who also executive produces. Executive Producers for the series also include Kerem Çatay and Claire Sowerby-Sheppard. Set in modern-day Istanbul, the series stars Haluk Bilginer ("Baba"), Ethan Kai ("Killing Eve") and Yasemin Kay Allen ("The Usual Suspects") is produced by Turkish production company Ay Yapim and distributed by Paramount Global Content Distribution.

Set in the multi-faceted city of Istanbul, "The Turkish Detective" follows the adventures of Inspector Çetin Ikmen (Bilginer), his partner Detective Mehmet Süleyman (Kai) and Detective Ayşe Farsakoğlu (Allen) going through ups and downs as they solve crimes, with each crime story being heavily rooted in the varied culture and history of Istanbul and set against the frenzied world of modern-day Turkey.

Ben Schiffer, writer & executive producer, said that he entered the universe of the series instantly: "From the moment I opened Barbara Nadel's novel, I fell in love with the unique, iconic character of Inspector Ikmen. A beacon of hope and humour in a dark, difficult world, I'm so delighted that he and our show, a blend of emotionally-charged mystery and family drama, has found a home at the BBC", noted.

Sue Deeks, Head of BBC Programme Acquisition, said the series is an opportunity to see the amalgamation of a modern and historical Istanbul: “Not only does 'The Turkish Detective' provide a compelling, multi-layered crime thriller, but is set in stunning Istanbul, a vibrant contemporary city that also reflects the cultural influences of a rich and varied historical past – it’s a truly fascinating combination;" commented.