Why did Gülsen Tuncer die? What was her illness?

Veteran actress Gülsen Tuncer, who gave life to the character Arsen Ziyagil made unforgettable on Turkish television in *Aşk-ı Memnu*, died at the age of 81. News of Tuncer’s death was brought to the public on September 17, 2026. Following the announcement of her passing, messages of condolence poured in from the arts community. The women’s organization Cumhuriyet Kadınları Derneği also issued a statement announcing the actress’s death and extending condolences to her family and close relatives.

Has been receiving treatment for some time.

Gülsen Tuncer has been battling serious health problems for some time and has undergone cancer treatment, according to reports published on September 13 that indicated the actress was diagnosed with brain cancer and that her disease was in the fourth stage. The Film‑San Foundation also announced that Tuncer is fighting a serious illness and published a message of support for the artist.

Gülsen Tuncer's Illness

Details about Tuncer’s health condition appeared in the press shortly before his death. Some reports indicated that, due to the progression of his illness, he had lost the ability to speak and write.

Who is Gülsen Tuncer, where is she from?

Gülsen Tuncer was born in Adana in 1945. The artist continued her education in Istanbul and graduated from the Theatre Department of the Istanbul Municipal Conservatory. During her student years she received training from prominent figures in the arts and literary world such as Yıldız Kenter and Melih Cevdet Anday.

She began her theatre career in 1968.

Tuncer launched her professional theatre work in 1968 with the play “Zilli Zarife” staged at the Gülriz Sururi‑Engin Cezzar Theatre. In later years she also appeared in film and television productions.

She also worked behind the camera.

In addition to acting, Tuncer took on various roles, serving as assistant director and assistant in about 40 films. The artist also pursued work in voice‑over, art direction, lyric writing, and composition.

She left a lasting impression with her portrayal of Arsen Hanım.

One of the most well-known roles of Gülsen Tuncer in her television career was the character Arsen Hanım in the series "Aşk-ı Memnu". Tuncer, in addition, played roles in various television productions such as "Çalıkuşu", "Bugünün Saraylısı", "Üvey Baba", "Fazilet Hanım ve Kızları" and "Hakim".

Awards for Her Cinema Work

Tuncer, in addition to theater and television, also worked in the film sector. Her performances in productions such as "A Train Journey" and "It Was Cold and It Was Raining" earned her recognition as deserving of awards in the supporting actress category.

A 50-Year Artistic Career

Tuncer, whose professional artistic life began in 1968 and has lasted for about half a century, has held positions throughout her career on theater stages, in cinema films, and in television series. One of her recent projects was the series "Hakim".

Farewell to Gülsen Tuncer

Gülsen Tuncer, who died at the age of 81, left behind a career in the arts that spanned more than 50 years. In addition to acting, Tuncer worked in various artistic fields, and she particularly etched herself into the memories of television viewers with her portrayal of Arsen Hanım in "Aşk-ı Memnu."