Turhan Bey
Biography
Turhan Bey, born Turhan Gilbert Selahattin Sahultavy on March 30, 1922, was an Austrian-born actor of Turkish and Czech Jewish descent. He made his mark in Hollywood between 1941 and 1953, charming audiences with his performances and earning the affectionate nickname "The Turkish Delight." Following his departure from the film industry, Turhan returned to his homeland of Austria, where he shifted his focus to photography and stage directing.
After a notable 40-year absence from Hollywood, Bey re-emerged in the entertainment scene during the 1990s, making memorable guest appearances in popular television series such as "SeaQuest DSV," "Murder, She Wrote," and "Babylon 5." In addition to his television work, he took on various film projects, showcasing his enduring talent.
In retirement, Turhan Bey continued to engage with his legacy, featuring in several documentaries, including a notable German-language film that chronicled his life and career. He passed away on September 30, 2012, leaving behind a rich legacy in film and television, as well as a personal journey that spanned continents and decades.
Filmography
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Sudan
1945 • Herua
White Savage
1943 • Tamara
The Adventures of Smilin' Jack
1943 • Kageyama [Chs. 1-5, 12-13]
Dragon Seed
1944 • Lao Er Tan - Middle Son
Background to Danger
1943 • Hassan
Junior G-Men of the Air
1942 • Henchman Araka
Arabian Nights
1942 • Captain of the Guard
The Amazing Mr. X
1948 • Alexis
The Mummy's Tomb
1942 • Mehemet Bey
Parole, Inc.
1948 • Barney Rodescu
Possessed by the Night
1994 • Calvin
Shadows on the Stairs
1941 • Ram Singh
Out of the Blue
1947 • David Gelleo
Captive Wild Woman
1943
The Mad Ghoul
1943 • Eric Iverson
Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves
1944 • Jamiel
The Falcon Takes Over
1942 • Jules Amthor (Uncredited)
The Gay Falcon
1941 • Manuel Retana