Turkish actress Ece İrtem, known for her role as Işıl in the popular television series Kızılcık Şerbeti, has died at the age of 35, according to the report. The news states that she was found dead in her home in the morning hours, with initial information indicating that the cause may have been a heart attack. Her death has shocked fans, colleagues, and the entertainment community. An official statement from her lawyer said that İrtem died around 12:00, at the home where she was with her mother, and that the exact cause of death will be confirmed after an autopsy. The statement added that the investigation is ongoing and that the public will be informed once the autopsy report is completed.
İrtem had recently been remembered by viewers for joining the cast of Kızılcık Şerbeti on January 17, 2025, in the role of Işıl, the friend of Kıvılcım. Her character’s arrival in the series, especially her job application at Abdullah’s new hotel, led to new developments in the storyline. Her death prompted tributes on social media, including a message from fellow actor Selçuk Kılıç, who expressed deep sadness and wished her peace.
Reports also noted a heartbreaking coincidence: İrtem had celebrated her birthday the night before her death and shared photos from the celebration on social media. The contrast between the joyful posts and the sudden news of her passing left her followers in mourning.
Born on June 14, 1991, in Sivas, Ece İrtem studied in Izmir and graduated in 2014 from Yaşar University’s Opera and Singing Department. During her university years, she worked with the Izmir State Opera and Ballet and trained with several notable artists. She later moved to Istanbul to pursue acting professionally and studied at the Sadri Alışık Cultural Center between 2014 and 2015.
Before becoming widely known on television, İrtem began acting at a young age through school performances and self-written sketches. She also participated in athletics as a licensed athlete during her primary school years. Over time, she built a career in Turkish television with roles in series such as Şeref Meselesi, Paramparça, Kertenkele, Yeni Gelin, Payitaht Abdülhamid, Mahrem, Kahraman Babam, Yasak Elma, and Kızılcık Şerbeti. She also appeared in the film Zengo.
İrtem’s sudden death has drawn widespread attention because of her recent work, her age, and the unexpected nature of the reported circumstances. Her passing has left a visible impact on both her family and the many viewers who followed her career on screen.
