02.02.2026 15:55
Necdet Kökeş, the veteran of Yeşilçam who became memorable with the character "ZıpZıp" in the "Battal Gazi" films, passed away at the age of 82.
Necdet Kökeş, one of the veteran actors of Yeşilçam, passed away at the age of 82.
HE HAD BEEN RECEIVING TREATMENT FOR 2 MONTHS
Necdet Kökeş struggled with health issues for a long time. The master actor, who suffered a heart attack in December 2025 and was subsequently hospitalized due to a blood clot in his brain, had been receiving treatment for about two months.
HE HAD BEEN UNDER SEDATION FOR A WHILE
Kökeş, who had been under sedation for a while due to lung problems, underwent a tracheostomy procedure to ease his breathing. However, despite all interventions, Kökeş lost his life.
WHO IS NECDET KÖKEŞ?
The life story of Necdet Kökeş, one of the most beloved character actors of Yeşilçam, stretches from Adana to the glittering sets of Istanbul.
He was born in Adana in 1944. In his youth, Kökeş was involved in professional football and wrestling, and he moved to Istanbul in 1962, stepping into the world of cinema as an extra.
In the 1970s, he won the love of millions with his agile, lively, and loyal character 'Zıpzıp' in the Battal Gazi series.
He appeared in approximately 105 films. He shared the same stage with many great names, from Kemal Sunal to Cüneyt Arkın, in unforgettable productions such as Battal Gazi'nin Oğlu, Şaban Askerde, Atla Gel Şaban, Üç Kağıtçı, and Leblebi Tozu.
Unfortunately, the last years of the master artist were spent in economic difficulties. Living alone in a hotel room in Beyoğlu, Kökeş made headlines for working in cafes despite his advanced age to make a living. However, he always expressed that he was "proud to be a part of Yeşilçam."