Biography
Theater, film, and television series actor, and screenwriter. Born on December 4, 1977, in Skopje, North Macedonia. He graduated from the Faculty of Dramatic Arts at the University of Skopje, majoring in Theater Arts.
Ertan Saban is one of the most brilliant, highly intense, and charismatic leading actors in contemporary Turkish entertainment. He launched his professional acting path on the classical stage of the Turkish Theater in Skopje, performing for many years before relocating to Turkey. He achieved his initial major career breakthrough and primetime popularity as Alexandro in the legendary historical drama series "Farewell Rumelia" (Elveda Rumeli, 2007–2009).
Ertan secured ultimate global recognition, critical acclaim, and high praise across international databases like elCinema, Sinemalar, and Kure Ansiklopedi for his outstanding portrayal of Gölge in the smash-hit crime saga "Valley of the Wolves: Ambush" (Kurtlar Vadisi Pusu) and as Sadi Payaslı in the highly-rated drama series "Gelsin Hayat Bildiği Gibi". He solidified his superstar status with leading roles in major projects such as "Karakol", the comedy-drama "Mutlu Ol Yeter", the crime series "Kötü Kan", and the acclaimed cinematic epic "Atatürk 1881-1919" as Ali Rıza Efendi. Furthermore, he co-wrote the critically praised feature film "Limonata".
Interesting facts:
Born into the Turkish minority community in North Macedonia, he is a highly gifted polyglot capable of flawlessly delivering distinct Balkan and regional Anatolian accents. Alongside his brother, Erman Saban (who is also a prominent actor), he remains deeply rooted in European dramatic arts. Celebrated for his intellectual depth, expressive screen presence, and masterly portrayals of complex anti-heroes, he holds a strong passion for rock music, political history, classical philosophy, and international literature.
Marital Status: Married (to acclaimed Turkish actress Ebru Özkan since 2016; they share a daughter named Birce. His first wife, İnci Saban, tragically passed away from cancer in 2009).