GQ HYPE Middle East Unveils Digital Cover Star Boran Kuzum

GQ HYPE Middle East unveils its latest digital cover star, Boran Kuzum, in a striking feature titled The Grit and Grind of Boran Kuzum, charting his journey from Ankara to Hollywood, where he lands a breakout role in Big Mistakes and redefines what it means to go global.

When Boran Kuzum was cast as Yusuf, the punchy, intimidating, yet still devilishly charming Turkish gangster in Dan Levy’s Netflix comedy Big Mistakes, the milestone marked a defining moment in his career. Just three years earlier, Kuzum had made an impulsive move to Los Angeles without industry connections or a clear roadmap, driven by a singular determination to become a global phenomenon. Now, as the first Turkish actor to join the main cast of a Netflix US series, Kuzum underscores the scale of that achievement and a breakthrough moment for international talent.

Having built his name across Turkish television and film, Kuzum now steps onto the international stage with a performance that marks a defining shift in his career, one shaped by risk, reinvention and relentless ambition.

Amine Jreissati, Head of Editorial Content at GQ Middle East, said: “Boran Kuzum’s story is exactly what GQ HYPE stands for, bold moves, cultural impact and talent that transcends borders. His journey reflects a new generation of global storytellers redefining success on their own terms.”

“Everyone thinks they have an idea of who you are when you still don’t even know yourself. It’s overwhelming.” 

“I grew up just outside of Ankara, and when you grow up in such a small place, you build up a lot of imagination.” 

“If I separate who I am from who I play, I can keep parts of me to myself.” 

“When you’re an actor, and you’re filming, you sometimes don’t get the chance to share your opinions.” 

“It can be difficult to leave your country and start from the beginning.”

From a one-way leap to Los Angeles to becoming the first Turkish actor to join the main cast of a Netflix US series, Kuzum’s story is a testament to betting big and winning. Read the full cover story now on GQ Middle East HYPE.

The full interview is available now on the GQ Middle East’s website www.gqmiddleeast.com.

GQ Hype is GQ Middle East’s editorial spotlight, the pulse of now, blending bold visuals, raw storytelling and fresh cultural energy with a laid-back edge.