Heavy reactions have come from Turkish artists and intellectuals to Disney Plus' decision to withdraw the "Atatürk" series from airing by succumbing to the pressure of Armenian lobbies.
Hürriyet newspaper columnist Hande Fırat stated the following about the issue: ''By succumbing to the pressure of the Armenian lobby, the Armenian diaspora in the United States, particularly the supporters of the Armenian National Committee of America (ANCA), has reached a point where they are thanking them for their campaign against the series that 'glorifies' Atatürk.
She added :''The production will be broadcast on FOX TV and in theaters, thereby reaching a much wider audience to introduce Atatürk to. In the hearts of Turks living in Türkiye and all around the world, Atatürk is already loved and respected in a way that words cannot describe. This audience is already growing up with Atatürk's life. In short, who are you trying to tell this to?''
Nedim Şener, another columnist from Hürriyet newspaper, expressed his reaction to the subject: ''In the 100th year of our Republic, which Atatürk referred to as My greatest work, the American television channel named Disney Plus has decided not to broadcast the Atatürk documentary that they prepared in two episodes. It is said that the influence of the Armenian lobbies, who have been spreading 'genocide accusations' about Atatürk, is behind this decision. Indeed, a leading Armenian lobby in America is claiming that they were able to stop the broadcast of the documentary through their own initiative. The world and history know that neither Atatürk nor the history of the Turks involves any crime against humanity like genocide. ''
Another Turkish news website, Sabah' columnist Tuba Kalçık expressing her displeasure as well: ''Disney+ has crossed the line this time. The decision to withdraw the 'Atatürk' series, in which Aras Bulut İynemli played the lead role, has sparked a significant backlash. Disregarding all the effort and money invested, this disrespect towards Atatürk, who left us an independent and free country, is unacceptable. Disney+, bowing to the pressure of the Armenian lobby, is making supposedly empty excuses. Although they claim to be adopting a new strategy and removing domestic productions, this explanation is not convincing to anyone.
The reactions related to the incident were not only limited to intellectuals but also extended to Turkish artists .
As the reactions against Disney Plus' decision not to broadcast the "Atatürk" series due to pressure from Armenian lobbies grow exponentially, even beloved figures from the music industry like Fedon Kalyoncu couldn't remain silent about this scandal. The artist took the stage at the 5th-anniversary celebration of the Moyo Hotel in Bodrum the other evening and expressed his disapproval of the decision.
Fedon stated, "These things have been happening since the world began, and they will continue to happen. I have nothing to do with lobbies. The lobby barks from over there, come bark from here as well!"
The renowned artist showcased his affection for Atatürk by posing with his "Atatürk" tattoo on his arm.
With his Armenian mother and Greek father, Fedon has always felt "otherized," and he reminded everyone that his grandfather was a martyr in Çanakkale: "I've been considered 'other' my whole life. I am a martyr's grandson. I've completed 24 months of military service, yet I am still 'other.' But I am a Turkish offspring."
Turkish pop artist Mustafa Sandal shared his reaction on Twitter, saying: "It is an unacceptable disgrace that the series about our great leader Mustafa Kemal Atatürk is being blocked by lobby activities! If Atatürk is not here, we are not here either! Besides, the content is already abysmal. Disney+ should cancel it and move on!"
Another singer, Sinan Akçıl, also shared his thoughts on the situation on Twitter. In his tweet, Akçıl commented: "I realize once again that I am on the right path by refraining from giving opportunities to the tabloid press in recent months, and I am amazed by the hypocrisy of some people in the industry. So, there is an Armenian lobby, but no Turkish lobby, right? Shame. Shame on you too, Disney Plus Türkiye, for not being able to stand up to the owner of the world."
