Fikret Hakan, whose birth name was Bumin Gaffar Çitanak, emerged onto the cinematic scene on April 23, 1934, to make a lasting impact as a celebrated Turkish film actor, earning him the esteemed honor of State Artist bestowed upon him by the Turkish government in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the world of Turkish cinema.
Hakan's early life was marked by a strong sense of family and education, as he was born to his parents, Gaffar and Fatma Belkıs. His mother, a dedicated and compassionate individual, was a head nurse who had a profound impact on the community. On the other hand, his father, Gaffar, was a literature teacher who instilled in Hakan a love for learning and a deep appreciation for the written word.
As a teenager, Hakan's family made the significant decision to relocate from their hometown of Balikesir to the bustling city of Istanbul. This move would have a profound impact on Hakan's life, as it provided him with access to new opportunities and experiences. He enrolled in the prestigious Galatasaray High School, a institution renowned for its academic excellence and rigorous curriculum.
This move to Istanbul also marked a significant turning point in Hakan's life, as he began to develop his own interests and passions. The city's vibrant cultural scene, rich history, and diverse community would have a profound impact on his worldview and would shape him into the person he is today.
Hakan's illustrious artistic journey commenced in the year 1950, marked by his inaugural foray into the world of acting as a talented thespian for the esteemed Ses Theatre, concurrently contributing to the realm of literary publications through his writings in various magazines.
This pioneering endeavor was soon followed by his big-screen debut in the year 1951, as he brought his unique flair to the short comedy film "Evli mi bekar mi", expertly directed by the visionary Muhsin Ertugrul.
Subsequently, Hakan made his feature film debut in 1953, showcasing his versatility as a performer in the critically acclaimed film "Köprüalti Çocuklari" (Kids Under the Bridge),a cinematic masterpiece that solidified his position as a rising star in the Turkish film industry.
Notable Turkish actor Hakan's extensive filmography spans over 170 productions, with a significant proportion of his work being realized during the 1950s, 1960s, and extending up to 1976. Among his most notable cinematic endeavors are the 1962 comedy masterpiece "Revenge of the Snakes" (Yılanların öcü),which showcased his impressive comedic range, and the 1970 action-packed thriller "You Can't Win 'Em All", in which he shared the spotlight with Hollywood stalwarts Tony Curtis and Charles Bronson.
Noted Turkish actor, Hakan, embarked on a complex romantic journey, entering into four marriages with esteemed ladies, including Lale Sarı, Semiramis Pekkan, Neşecan Paşmak, and Hümeyra, each representing a distinct chapter in his life. Beyond the boundaries of matrimony, he also fathered an extramarital daughter, Elif Hakan, whose existence served as a testament to the multifaceted nature of his personal life.
As the years unfolded, Hakan's romantic pursuits continued to evolve, and he eventually entered into a life partnership with Tijen Kılıç, a union that would bring him solace and companionship in his later years.
Hakan's life was tragically cut short when he succumbed to the devastating effects of lung cancer on July 11, 2017, at a hospital in Istanbul, a city that had been his home and the backdrop for many of his most cherished memories.
In the days that followed his passing, friends, family, and loved ones gathered to pay their respects and bid a final farewell to the man who had touched so many hearts.
A memorial ceremony was held at Istanbul University's Faculty of Science, a place where Hakan had likely spent countless hours studying, learning, and growing as a young man.
Following the ceremony, a religious funeral was held at Afet Yolal Mosque in Levent, a beautiful and serene location that provided a peaceful setting for the mourners to come together and say their goodbyes.
Finally, Hakan was laid to rest at Zincirlikuyu Cemetery, a place where he would be remembered and honored by those who loved him for years to come.
