Sibel Kekilli

Early Life and Unexpected Career Shift

Born on June 16, 1980, in Heilbronn, West Germany, to a family of Turkish origin, Sibel Kekilli embarked on a career in public administration before fate intervened. Despite a conventional start, working as an administrative assistant and various odd jobs, Kekilli’s life took a dramatic turn when she was discovered by a casting director in a shopping mall in Cologne. This moment led her from a potential career in public service to the world of acting, where she would find her true calling.

Breakthrough and Controversy

After being cast in the lead role of 'Head-On' (2004),Kekilli received critical acclaim, winning the prestigious Lola for Best Actress. However, her early foray into adult films led to a public scandal and estrangement from her family. Despite these challenges, Kekilli persevered, using the experience to fuel her performances and advocate for others.

From National Acclaim to International Stardom

Following her success in German cinema with films like 'When We Leave', for which she received another Lola for Best Actress, Kekilli achieved international recognition as Shae in HBO’s 'Game of Thrones'. Her role in the series showcased her versatility and brought her global fame. Additionally, her participation in the long-running German crime series 'Tatort' further established her as a talented actress.

Activism and Personal Life

Outside of acting, Kekilli is a vocal advocate for women’s rights and against violence towards women. Her involvement with the organization Terre des Femmes and her powerful speeches on the topic have made her a respected figure in activism. Kekilli resides in Hamburg and continues to work on diverse projects while using her platform to support important social causes.