A soap star has died of a suspected sudden heart attack one day after her 35th birthday.
Ece İrtem suffered a medical emergency at her home in Istanbul, Turkey, yesterday (15 Jun).
Paramedics were called to the scene but were unable to revive her.
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The actress’ mother was present in the home at the time.
Ece, best known for playing the sharp-witted Işıl in the popular TV series Cranberry Sorbet, passed away one day after celebrating her 35th birthday.
Her lawyer, Uğur Gökkoyun, confirmed the news in a statement: “My client Ece İrtem passed away today at around midday.
“The incident occurred at her home while she was with her mother.
“Initial findings suggest she died due to a heart attack.
“The investigation continues and the exact cause will be determined by the autopsy report, which will be shared with the public when available.”
He added: “I offer my condolences to her family and all her loved ones.”
Ece posted on social media the previous day, thanking fans and loved ones who marked her birthday, as reported by Need To Know.
Born on 14 June 1991 in Sivas, central Turkey, Ece graduated with honours in opera and singing from Yaşar University in 2014.
She trained with leading Turkish and international vocalists before moving to Istanbul, where she studied acting at the Sadri Alışık Cultural Centre.
Her television credits included roles in Yeni Gelin, Mr Wrong, Sandık Kokusu, and 10 Days of a Curious Man, as well as appearances in historical dramas such as Kuruluş Osman and Payitaht Abdülhamid.
Tributes have poured in from the Turkish entertainment industry and fans, many highlighting her talent, warmth, and recent messages of gratitude.
The news also renewed discussion in Turkey about rising cases of sudden cardiac events among younger people, although the authorities stress that Ece’s exact cause of death still awaits confirmation.
Her family has requested privacy at this time as they mourn the loss of the young actress.
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