A decades-old controversy resurfaced this week involving Turkish singer deniz Seki and musician Bayhan, stemming from comments Seki made during a televised singing competition.
the dispute originated during the 2003 season of “Popstar Türkiye,” a popular reality show. Seki, a judge on the program, publicly criticized Bayhan after learning he had previously served time in prison.Her remarks sparked widespread outrage and debate.
“We shouldn’t crown Bayhan,” Seki stated at the time. “This isn’t a competition of compassion. A popstar has certain criteria, but there’s one thing they absolutely cannot be: a murderer. Someone who has been to prison cannot be an artist. We should ostracize them from society.”
The controversy highlights the ongoing discussion in Turkey about rehabilitation, public image, and the role of artists in society.
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