Mahassine Merabet on Acting, Identity, and Her Journey from Morocco to Turkey

From Casablanca to Istanbul, Mahassine Merabet's journey is one of resilience, talent, and cultural connection. Best known for her breakout role in the hit Turkish series Esaret, Mahassine has quickly risen to international recognition, capturing hearts not only in Turkey but also in her home country of Morocco. With a background as a translator and a passion for storytelling, she has built a career defined by grace, ambition, and a deep sense of purpose.

As a woman navigating multiple languages and cultures, Mahassine brings a layered perspective to her performances—balancing the traditions of her Moroccan roots with the vibrant energy of Turkish television. Her path into acting was anything but conventional, shaped by chance encounters, spiritual mentors, and an unwavering belief in her dreams. Whether on screen or in conversation, she exudes sincerity and strength, remaining grounded in gratitude even as her star rises.

In this interview with Dilay Seckin, Mahassine reflects on her early life, her transition into acting, the people who shaped her journey, and the values that continue to guide her forward. From beauty routines to definitions of love, she opens up about the personal and professional moments that have defined her so far—and hints at what lies ahead.

Finding Her Path

Dilay Seckin: What kind of period are you in right now in your life?

Mahassine Merabet: I can say that I’m at a turning point in my life. My first TV series, Esaret, ended after its third season. Now I’m in a period where I’m digesting what this journey has taught me and also excitedly waiting for new projects.

DS: Your story begins in Morocco and continues in Istanbul. If we go back to the beginning, what was your childhood like?

MM: I’m the elder sister in a small family with two daughters. I grew up in a warm family and had a generally happy and loving childhood. My childhood was precious and priceless to me.

DS: How did you come to Turkey and decide to become an actress?

MM: My arrival in Turkey started with learning Turkish and working as a translator in Morocco. I met a teacher named Semra at a fair where I was translating. I’m very grateful to her—she’s my spiritual mom. With her support, I came to Turkey and stayed at her home for a long time. My decision to become an actress started when I met my manager Tümay Özokur. Her professionalism helped me discover my acting talent and passion. I started training at the Tümay Özokur Academy and began my acting journey there.

Balancing Two Worlds

DS: Acting in a different country, culture, and language surely adds to your success. Did Esaret attract attention in Morocco?

MM: The success I had in Esaret and my Moroccan identity attracted great attention from the Moroccan people. That interest has been both a source of pride for me and a great accomplishment for my country. We completed my first TV series project in Morocco last summer, and it will be on air soon. That excitement also holds a special place in my heart. It’s very valuable to me to leave a mark in my own country, in my own language.

DS: You're returning to your hometown this summer. You were part of a project during your last visit—will you be working again, or is this trip purely for vacation?

MM: My priority this summer is to spend time with my family and get some rest. However, I’ll also have meetings about some projects. I’ll try to balance vacation and work this year.

DS: You're fit and beautiful—do you have any special beauty secrets besides good genes?

MM: I love Morocco’s traditional beauty oils. Every time I go, I stock up. I love using products like argan oil, green clay, and Aker el Fassi.

Style, Support, and Self-Discovery

DS: Do you follow fashion? How would you describe your personal style?

MM: Of course, I try to follow fashion. But I can say that not all trends suit my style. That’s why I prefer to wear what suits me, rather than just what’s trendy.

DS: What inspired you to discover yourself and create your own path? Who has been your biggest supporter?

MM: I drew strength from myself, from my own story and experiences. My biggest supporters on this path have been, first of all, my beloved family, my spiritual mom Semra Teacher, and my dear manager Tümay Özokur.

DS: Everyone defines love in their own way. How do you define it?

MM: Love is a feeling based on respect, understanding, affection, and trust.

DS: What is your definition of an ideal relationship?

MM: An ideal relationship is between two people who love and support each other—being there for each other in every way, supporting each other, growing and developing together.

Reflecting on Values

DS: Who are you with and where are you when you say, "This is life"?

MM: Actually, I don’t think where I am matters much. For me, being in a peaceful place is enough. It’s very valuable for me to share that happy moment with my loved ones.

DS: What principles shape your philosophy of life?

MM: Naturalness, effort, loyalty, and being grateful. I try to live my life by listening to my inner voice and appreciating the little moments. I believe that everything that comes from the heart finds its way.

DS: What would you like to say to yourself when you read this interview in the future?

MM: No matter what, guard your heart Mahassine. Never lose that little girl inside you and remember to be proud of yourself.

Short Questionnaire

(Quickfire Q&A with Mahassine Merabet)

DS: Which movie and character from the past do you wish you could have played?

MM: Pride and Prejudice — Elizabeth.

DS: What topic are you more sensitive to than most people?

MM: I always try to be more sensitive towards the elderly.

DS: Which wild animal would you like to tame?

MM: A koala or a penguin.

DS: What’s your favorite sound?

MM: The sound of the forest.

DS: Who is your role model from history?

MM: Although I don’t call her a role model, I was impressed by Hürrem Sultan—by her intelligence and beauty.

DS: What’s the best movie of all time?

MM: Les Intouchables.

DS: What’s the most interesting gift you’ve ever received?

MM: My Brazilian fans gave me a figurine of me as a gift. It’s such a sweet and interesting gift.

DS: Which actor would you love to work with?

MM: Morgan Freeman.

DS: If you could choose, which period and place would you live in?

MM: Between 1960 and 1980, in Morocco.

DS: What memory still feels strange to you the more you remember it?

MM: The beginning of my acting story. When I came to Turkey for a trip, I met my current manager Tümay Özokur’s elder sister, Tules Evren, at the hairdresser.

DS: What makes you happiest?

MM: Realizing my dreams.

DS: What makes you saddest?

MM: Injustice.

DS: If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

MM: Invisibility.

DS: If you had to give up all colors but one, which would you keep?

MM: White.

DS: Describe life in one word.

MM: Journey…