**Ercan Kesal** (1959), Turkish actor, screenwriter, and director, is a distinctive figure in contemporary cinema. He has gained widespread recognition for his intense performances, particularly in the works of director **Nuri Bilge Ceylan**.

Among his most memorable roles are those in **Üç Maymun** (Three Monkeys, 2008) and, above all, in **Bir Zamanlar Anadolu'da** (Once Upon a Time in Anatolia, 2011), for which he also co-wrote the screenplay.

Kesal stands out for his ability to embody complex characters, often ordinary men, melancholic or tormented, with measured but deeply impactful acting. His expressiveness and stage presence make him one of the most acclaimed actors in contemporary Turkish cinema.