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Angelina Jolie plays the world’s most famous opera diva. But in "Maria," one of the film’s most arresting presences is the man beside her.
That man is Haluk Bilginer, the Turkish actor portraying shipping magnate Aristotle Onassis, whose restrained performance has drawn fresh global attention to a career that has moved seamlessly from British television to Turkish theater to international cinema.
Directed by Chilean filmmaker Pablo Larraín, "Maria" premiered at the Venice International Film Festival on Aug. 29, 2024, later opening in select theaters before streaming globally on Netflix.
The film portrays opera legend Maria Callas in her final years in 1970s Paris and completes Larraín’s trilogy of cinematic portraits of iconic 20th century women, following "Jackie" and "Spencer."
The role marks another milestone in a career that began far from Hollywood. Haluk Bilginer was born on June 5, 1954, in Izmir, Türkiye, to Bedriye and Tahsin Bilginer.
His passion for acting emerged during high school, where he joined the drama club and won his first acting award in a theater competition.
This early success led him to the Ankara State Conservatory, where he honed his craft before continuing his studies at the prestigious London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA).
Bilginer began his career in the United Kingdom, gaining recognition for his role as Mehmet Osman in the British soap opera "EastEnders." This role, spanning 250 episodes from 1985 to 1989, introduced Haluk Bilginer to an international audience.
During his time in the U.K., Bilginer appeared in numerous stage productions, demonstrating his versatility in plays such as "My Fair Lady", "Macbeth" and "The Phantom of the Opera."
Returning to Türkiye in the late 1980s, Bilginer quickly became a leading figure in Turkish cinema and theater.
In 1990, he co-founded the Tiyatro Studyosu (Theater Studio) with his then-wife Zuhal Olcay and later established the Oyun Atolyesi (Play Workshop) in 1999, creating spaces for innovative theatrical productions.
Bilginer's filmography is as diverse as it is impressive. His standout performances include roles in "Masumiyet" (Innocence), "Kis Uykusu" (Winter Sleep), and the Emmy-winning series "Sahsiyet" (Persona), in which he portrayed Agah Beyoglu.
This role earned him the International Emmy Award for Best Actor in 2019, making him the first Turkish actor to receive this honor.
Bilginer's personal life has often intertwined with his professional career.
His first marriage to actress Zuhal Olcay was both romantic and creative partnership, with the couple collaborating on several projects.
Following their divorce in 2004, Bilginer married singer Askin Nur Yengi, with whom he has a daughter, Nazli.
Although their marriage ended in 2012, Bilginer remains a devoted father and a prominent figure in Turkish cultural life.
"Maria" tells the story of Maria Callas' final days in 1970s Paris, delving into her deep loneliness and the enduring impact of her relationship with Aristotle Onassis.
Directed by Pablo Larrain, known for "Jackie" and "Spencer," the film is a strong contender in the upcoming awards season
Critics have praised Jolie's portrayal of Callas as "absolutely mesmerizing," while Bilginer's performance as Onassis has received widespread acclaim.
In an interview with Deadline, Jolie said, "It's a role that comes once in a lifetime. The emotional depth required pushed me to my limits, but sharing the screen with Haluk Bilginer made it all the more rewarding."
Bilginer described working with Jolie as "inspiring." Speaking to Turkish media, he remarked, "Angelina is a consummate professional. Collaborating with her on such a profound story was an experience I will treasure forever."
Since its release, "Maria" has generated significant buzz, with particular praise for its lead performances. On social media, fans have commended the chemistry between Jolie and Bilginer, calling their scenes together emotional and powerful.
The film's detailed historical accuracy, combined with Larrain's unique directorial approach, has cemented its status as a must-watch.
For Bilginer, the role adds another international chapter to a career that has long moved between cultures, languages and stages.
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