A major controversy has broken out in Turkey surrounding the popular television drama Cranberry Sorbet (Kızılcık Şerbeti), aired on Show TV and consistently ranking among the nation’s most watched programmes. The uproar was triggered by a storyline in episode 104, where two central characters engage in an affair.
The plot revealed that Doga, wife of Fatih, begins a secret relationship with Firaz, who is married to Fatih’s sister, Nursema. Depiction of an illicit relationship within the same family provoked a particularly sharp reaction from Turkish audiences. The episode ended with the pair exchanging text messages, a revelation that shocked viewers.
Social media quickly erupted with criticism. Many accused the show of «crossing all limits for ratings», while others declared they would no longer follow it. Critics also argued that such content sets a poor example for young people and undermines family values. Singer Demet Akalın openly condemned the storyline, calling it «a disgrace and a sin».
The Government Response
Amid the backlash, the Turkish Radio and Television Supreme Council (RTÜK) announced a formal investigation. Its chairman, Ebubekir Şahin, stated that the complaints would be examined in detail and appropriate measures taken against the broadcaster. Shortly after, a new trailer for the following episode was removed from digital platforms.
According to journalist Birsen Altuntaş, production company Gold Film has already decided to rewrite the script to ease public anger. The storyline between Doga and Firaz will be reworked, although it remains unclear whether the adultery plot will be removed entirely or softened. Viewers are now awaiting Friday’s new episode with heightened interest.
The controversy deepened further when old remarks by the show’s scriptwriter, Merve Göntem, resurfaced online. Her past statements about morality and youth behaviour were criticised as offensive, fuelling fresh calls for changes in the way the drama is produced.
