Erkan Serçe
Prince Erkan Serçe –The Entertainer from 1001 Nights
With his signature crown emblem on his chest, a radiant smile, and an unparalleled stage presence, Erkan Serce has been captivating audiences for over 40 years. Known as "Prince Erkan," he embodies the pure magic of show business—a fairytale from 1001 Nights that he has written and brought to life himself.
Born in 1967 in Ankara, Turkey, to a celebrated folk singer and teacher who nurtured countless stars, Erkan Serce inherited his love for music and innate talent from an early age. Today, he resides in Bodrum with his family, where his artistic passion is matched by his deep compassion for animals and dedication to charitable causes.
A Versatile Artist
Erkan Serce is a true polymath—dancer, singer, actor, presenter, and host of his own talk show. Fluent in an impressive seven languages, he enchants global audiences with his Turkish music performances and extravagant, colorful costumes. But beyond his artistry lies a personality that shines even brighter: sensitive, kind, charming, and brimming with positive energy.
With every performance, Prince Erkan creates a magical connection with his audience. His gestures, expressions, and iconic stage attire amplify the fairytale essence of his shows. Whether on screen or live on stage, his performances are a celebration of life—a perfect blend of professionalism and pure entertainment.
A Heart for Humanity
What truly sets Erkan Serce apart is his unwavering dedication to humanity. A devoted believer in karma, he tirelessly supports charitable causes. From benefit events for children, animals, and the underprivileged to his deep affection for dogs, cats, and horses, the entertainer prince proves that a big heart is as vital as great talent. Through his extraordinary career, passion for the arts, and infectious optimism, Erkan Serce is a true source of inspiration—a modern-day prince who turns dreams into reality.
Interview
Your stage persona as "Prince Erkan" is truly unique. What does this role mean to you personally, and how has it shaped your life?
The title of "Prince" has been incredibly positive for me because it allows me to separate the showman from the person Erkan Serce. It gives structure to my life: when the lights come on, I am Prince Erkan; when the lights go out, I return to being the ordinary Erkan Serce. This title has given me the freedom to fully express my heart and soul on stage as a noble prince.
Your mother was a celebrated artist. How did she influence your artistic career, and what advice of hers do you carry with you to this day?
My mother, who brought six children into this world, always told me as a young boy, "You carry my soul; you are the only child who carries my essence. You belong on stage. You must sing, dance, bring yourself joy, and make others happy. Do it until the day you die because an artist is born to be an artist. Only a barmaid has an age, but an artist never grows old."
Her words have stayed with me and continue to inspire me. She was my soul, my queen, and my manager—always guiding and supporting me. I owe who I am on stage today entirely to her.
You speak seven languages. How has your multilingualism enriched your international career?
I’ve always been a ray of sunshine, a colorful bird of paradise. I wanted to speak with everyone, to understand them. That’s when I learned that every language is its own world. Having lived in Germany, I naturally learned German. I speak Turkish fluently and have also learned English, Greek, Arabic, and Persian. Wherever I traveled, I tried to learn the local language. This has helped me build connections and earn the admiration of people from various cultures.
Costumes are a central part of your performances. What inspires your extravagant style, and how do you choose your outfits?
All my outfits are my own designs. I create the concepts and then have them crafted by talented tailors in Turkey. In the past, I also had costumes made in Egypt and India. My designs reflect my body and soul—they are entirely unique, not borrowed or copied. Each piece carries my signature, born from my imagination and vision.
You are not only an artist but also a compassionate advocate for animals. Is there a particular animal that has profoundly impacted your life?
As a boy, I was fascinated by canaries and desperately wanted one. But my mother told me it was wrong to keep a bird in a cage. Instead, she encouraged me to ride a horse, saying it would give me a sense of freedom. That’s when I discovered my love for horses. I adore all animals—especially cats and dogs. When I look into their loyal eyes, it feels like gazing into the mirror of my own soul. I see loyalty, comfort, and security.
Connecting with animals brings such beautiful energy. Every month, I donate a portion of my income to help stray animals and support children and people in need.
With 40 years of stage experience, what has been the most magical moment in your career?
One particularly touching moment stands out—a defining experience. I once performed at a charity gala for orphaned children, especially young girls at risk of being sold as child brides to older men. After my performance, a little girl approached me and said, "You are a dream prince. If there were more like you, we could have married a prince instead of old men."
Her words deeply moved me, leaving me heartbroken yet reassured that my efforts are making a difference. It motivates me to wake up each day with renewed hope and a determination to make the world a better place for vulnerable children and animals.
How do you incorporate elements of traditional Turkish music into your performances alongside modern show elements?
A hundred years ago, or even fifty, art was confined to strict forms, and artists were expected to follow established rules. However, art must evolve. It’s essential to bring in your own personality and elements that reflect the artist's imagination and vision. Otherwise, you're just a copy of someone who came before you, and I never wanted that for myself.
As a child, I already had the desire to be different—I moved differently, danced differently, and dressed differently. That’s why I became Prince Erkan Serce, a prince like something out of 1001 Nights. In fairy tales, anything is possible. I’ve created a harmonious and successful cocktail of expressive possibilities that feels true to who I am.
Your talk show is another expression of your versatility. What sets your show apart, and what makes it unique?
In my talk show, I speak from my heart and soul. I embrace people and meet them on equal ground. That’s why I have viewers of all ages—men and women from around the world. In reviews, people often mention how I interact with honesty and openness, responding authentically rather than saying what others want to hear or what the producers might dictate.
From the beginning, I told the producers that they had to give me this freedom because it’s my show. This approach has been incredibly successful. People in Turkey feel understood by me and view me as a part of their family.
Karma plays an important role in your life. How do you incorporate this philosophy into your art and everyday life?
It’s actually very simple—I treat others the way I want to be treated. I give them respect, care, and mindfulness, and I accept them as they are, regardless of their religion, culture, age, or gender. People are either well-crafted or less refined creations. I don’t stress over those who are less refined, nor do I feel the need to change or teach them.
After so many years in the spotlight, what keeps you motivated to continue captivating your audience?
Honestly? The stage is my home. No matter what’s happening in my life—whether I’m running on empty, feeling sad, or dealing with problems—be they physical, emotional, or material—the moment I step onto the stage, I forget it all and feel happy again.
Many people step on stage and play a role, filling a void that doesn’t align with who they truly are, and that’s damaging to their soul. For me, it’s different. On stage, I’m completely free to be who I really am. The applause feels like a warm rain shower for my heart. It nourishes my soul and reassures me that I am still full of energy, healthy, and alive—and that people still want something from me. That brings me inner peace and happiness.
Finally, Prince Erkan, is there anything else you’d like to share about your remarkable life?
In closing, I want to say to everyone: you only have one life, and you should follow your heart. Only your feelings can tell you if your partner is right, if the country is right, if your work is right. Listen to your heart—not what your parents, friends, or others tell you. Find your own path, and the heavens and the universe will support you. When you have the courage to follow your own way, you’ll be rewarded because the body and soul are connected.
