Turkish entertainment group takes legal action over defamation campaign

ISTANBUL

The owner of a Turkish entertainment group is taking legal action against individuals and organizations behind a “sustained campaign of disinformation and defamation,” which the company says harmed its business operations and reputation.

Ted Anastasiou, the legal counsel for Abdulkadir Ozkan, the owner of DBL Entertainment, said the attacks, which have continued despite efforts to clarify the facts, were aimed at undermining his company’s work.

The statement cited March 31 remarks by Ozkan making clear that his comments were directed at a small group of violent provocateurs and that peaceful protest is a constitutional right.

"That Mr. Ozkan’s reasonable stance could be so wildly twisted says a great deal about the times we’re living in," said Anastasiou. "Lies are rebranded as 'alternative facts' and amplified at warp speed on social media."

Ozkan's legal team described the attacks as "defying both common sense and the law," highlighting the financial damage caused, which include concert cancellations and reputational harm affecting not only DBL but also the vendors and professionals who rely on the company’s work.

“Mr. Ozkan has filed formal legal actions against those responsible for defamation, incitement, unfair competition, and economic interference,” Anastasiou’s statement said. "We are actively pursuing all legal remedies available under Turkish and international law."

According to the statement, further legal proceedings are expected against anyone engaged in “unlawful conduct,” including contractual breaches and malicious misrepresentations.

DBL Entertainment is known for bringing some of the world's most iconic artists to Türkiye.