Yasak Elma (known in English as Forbidden Apple or Forbidden Fruit) is one of the longest-running Turkish dramas of recent years: six seasons, 177 episodes and more than five years on air. It is a drama of rivalry, revenge and shifting alliances rather than a straightforward romance, so it suits a different audience from most series on our lists. This review explains what it is, what to expect, and whether the commitment makes sense, without spoiling the story.
The basics
- Original title: Yasak Elma
- Channel: FOX (listed as NOW on some pages)
- Aired: 19 March 2018 to 5 June 2023
- Seasons and episodes: 6 seasons, 177 episodes
- Episode length: Roughly 110 to 150 minutes
- Genre: Drama, rivalry, revenge
- Leads: Şevval Sam (Ender Çelebi), Eda Ece (Yıldız Yıldırım)
- Production: Medyapım
- Series page: Yasak Elma on DiziCentral
The channel is listed differently across sources, because the channel was later rebranded as NOW. Check the series page if you need the details.
What is it about?
The premise is a classic Turkish setup with a twist: a wealthy woman, Ender, plans to have a young waitress, Yıldız, seduce her husband, and the plan backfires. From there, the story follows the fallout, with rival families, secrets and changing alliances over several years. Later seasons shift the focus toward revenge and an expanding cast, with Ender and Yıldız moving between conflict and uneasy cooperation as new enemies appear.
If you like to watch two strong female leads outmaneuver each other, that is the heart of the series.
What works
A premise built for long-form drama
The central rivalry is flexible enough to be rewritten several times, so the series never has to rely on a single plot. New characters, such as the schemers and relatives played by a large supporting cast, keep the story changing.
Female-led storytelling
Unlike most Turkish series, where a romantic couple is the center, this one is driven by the relationship between two women. It stands out among the family dramas and rivalry stories for that reason.
Glossy production
It is made by Medyapım, one of Turkey's best-known producers, and its wealthy-family setting calls for glamorous interiors and wardrobe.
What may test your patience
- The length. 177 episodes at up to 150 minutes is hundreds of hours. This is a serious commitment, comparable to the longest series on our crime and mafia list.
- Escalating plots. As with many long-running series, later seasons rely on large twists and returning characters, which some viewers find less grounded than the early episodes.
- Little romance. If you expect a love story at the center, this is not the best match. Try the best Turkish romantic dramas instead.
- A lot of conflict. It deals with betrayal and revenge, so it is more intense than a romantic comedy. Check the age guidance before watching with younger viewers.
How it compares with similar series
Yasak Elma belongs to the same family of long, plot-heavy dramas as Grand Family, which runs to 199 episodes, though that series is a mafia saga and Yasak Elma is a household rivalry. For a female-led story with a very different tone, look at Our Story, and for a shorter, more romantic option see Love for Rent. A useful rule of thumb: if you enjoyed a series that kept raising the stakes for 100 or more episodes, you are likely to enjoy this one.
How to watch it comfortably
- Treat it as a long project. Two or three episodes a week would take you more than a year, so decide whether you prefer a steady pace or a few big binges.
- Try the first season first. The opening sets up the central rivalry, so you can judge whether the tone suits you before committing to six seasons.
- Mind the spoilers. Search results for later seasons reveal major plot points, so avoid looking up cast lists beyond the first season.
- Check availability. Streaming rights differ by country, and the series may be available under the title Forbidden Apple or Forbidden Fruit.
Who should watch Yasak Elma?
- Fans of long, twisty dramas: yes.
- Viewers who like strong female rivalries: yes.
- New viewers: not as a first series. Start with something shorter from our beginner's guide.
- Viewers who want a light watch: no. Try Daydreamer; our Daydreamer review explains why it is lighter.
Our verdict
Yasak Elma is a big, glossy rivalry drama that rewards viewers who like to settle in for the long term and who enjoy plots that keep reinventing themselves. It is not the right pick for a first series or for viewers who want a quick romance. If it appeals, it offers hundreds of hours of material. Before you start, read how many seasons Turkish series have and why Turkish drama episodes are so long so you know what you are signing up for. See also all drama series on DiziCentral.
Frequently asked questions
How many episodes does Yasak Elma have?
177 episodes across six seasons, according to the original Turkish broadcast.
Is Forbidden Apple the same as Yasak Elma?
Yes. Forbidden Apple and Forbidden Fruit are English titles for Yasak Elma.
Is Yasak Elma a romance?
Not primarily. It centers on rivalry, revenge and family conflict, although there are romantic storylines.
Who stars in Yasak Elma?
Şevval Sam plays Ender Çelebi and Eda Ece plays Yıldız Yıldırım.
Is it a good first Turkish series?
No. It is long and intense, so a shorter, lighter series is a better introduction.
