Meet Mehmet | Actor/Writer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mehmet and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mehmet, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I’m originally from Kangal, a small town in Sivas, Türkiye—famous for raising the Kangal shepherd dogs, one of the most loyal and powerful breeds in the world. Life in Kangal was simple, grounded in tradition and nature, but even in that quiet setting, my imagination was always alive. Some of the most vivid and meaningful memories from my childhood were spent sitting in front of the TV, watching classic American films. I was captivated by amazing actors like Charlie Chaplin, Robert Mitchum, John Wayne, Steve McQueen, James Dean, Marlon Brando, Clint Eastwood, Gene Hackman and Jack Nicholson. Even though I was thousands of miles away from Hollywood, their performances spoke to something deep inside me. I didn’t understand it then, but I think that’s when the seed of wanting to become an actor was planted.

Still, like many people, life had its own plans. I followed a more practical path and pursued different opportunities, eventually moving to San Diego to improve my English. I didn’t realize at the time that all these experiences—living abroad, learning new cultures, and overcoming personal challenges—were actually shaping me as an artist. Years later, while living in Hong Kong, a close friend who was a director offered me the lead role in a short film. I accepted, not knowing it would change the course of my life. That experience lit a fire in me. For the first time, I felt fully alive—connected to something greater than myself. I wasn’t just performing; I was expressing something truthful, something human. That was the moment I realized that acting wasn’t just a dream from childhood. It was a calling that had been patiently waiting for me to return to it.

Since then, I’ve acted in more than 19 films, trained in theatre and musical theatre at Grossmont College, and committed myself fully to a life of storytelling. Pursuing a creative career has allowed me to explore different lives, emotions, and perspectives. That’s why I’m passionate about choosing diverse and layered characters to bring to the screen. It has given me the opportunity to bridge cultures, raise awareness about social issues, and connect with people from all walks of life. To me, art is about truth and transformation—and I feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of that process every day.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is rooted in truth and transformation. As an actor, I’m drawn to roles that challenge perception, tell untold stories, and offer a deeper look into the human experience. What sets me apart is the blend of cultures and experiences I bring with me—from growing up in Kangal, Türkiye to living in Hong Kong and now building my career in the U.S. I don’t see acting as just performance—I see it as a tool for empathy, for bridging cultural gaps, and for sparking meaningful conversations.

I’m most proud of the journey itself. I’ve acted in over 19 films so far, including Asylum, which won Best Feature Film at the Los Angeles Film & Script Festival. That film, like many of the projects I gravitate toward, was rooted in social awareness—it told the story of an asylum seeker and reflected real-life struggles. I’m currently working on several new film projects, and I recently completed a sci-fi drama called Invincible Empire, as well as a horror-comedy short where I played the title role of Mr. Deeds. Each character, no matter how light or dark, is an opportunity to explore a truth and leave something behind for the audience to reflect on.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I didn’t come from a film industry background. I had to build from the ground up—learning English, adapting to new cultures, and taking risks. There were moments of doubt, rejection, and financial uncertainty. But I always returned to why I started: because storytelling matters. I stayed committed, kept training, and surrounded myself with people who believed in me even when I didn’t.

The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that your story—no matter how different or unconventional—is your power. You don’t need to fit into anyone else’s mold. Be authentic, stay disciplined, and never stop evolving.

If there’s one thing I want the world to know about me or my brand, it’s this: I create from a place of sincerity. Whether I’m acting, writing, or collaborating on a project, I’m committed to telling stories that resonate—stories that reflect struggle, resilience, and hope. I want to inspire people who come from small towns, from different countries, or from unexpected backgrounds to know that they belong in this space too. If I can make even one person feel seen through my work, then I’ve done my job.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.

Favorite Spots in the City – My Los Angeles Itinerary

If my best friend were visiting Los Angeles for a week, I’d give them a mix of classic Hollywood charm, creative neighborhoods, great food, and relaxing escapes. LA is a city of contrasts—and that’s what makes it unforgettable.

Day 1 – Classic Hollywood Welcome
We’d start at Griffith Observatory for the iconic skyline view and a walk on the nearby trails. Then head down to Hollywood Boulevard to see the Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre. At night, dinner at Musso & Frank Grill—an old-school Hollywood spot where legends once dined.

Day 2 – Studio + Cinema Day
A full day of film energy. We’d take the Warner Bros. Studio Tour or Paramount Pictures tour to feel that behind-the-scenes magic. After that, dinner at Jones Hollywood, followed by a screening at New Beverly Cinema (Tarantino’s theater) or The Egyptian Theatre if there’s a classic film showing.

Day 3 – Downtown LA & Arts District
We’d spend the day in Downtown LA, starting with breakfast at The Original Pantry Café, then exploring The Broad Museum, MOCA, and Walt Disney Concert Hall. In the afternoon, we’d hit the Arts District—grab coffee at Urth Caffé, check out galleries, and visit Hauser & Wirth. Tacos at Guerilla Tacos or a rooftop dinner at Perch to wrap up the day.

Day 4 – Venice & Santa Monica
We’d walk along Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice for boutique shopping, then stroll the Venice Canals and boardwalk. Lunch at Gjusta, then head to Santa Monica Pier. Sunset from Palisades Park is a must, followed by dinner at The Misfit.

Day 5 – Nature + Spiritual Recharge
Start the morning with a hike in Runyon Canyon or Temescal Gateway Park. Then visit Lake Shrine or Self-Realization Fellowship Gardens in Pacific Palisades for some peace and reflection. Evening hangout at Topanga Canyon—maybe a local acoustic set or artist gathering.

Day 6 – Culture, Coffee, and Nightlife in Silver Lake & Echo Park
We’d dive into LA’s indie vibe—brunch at All Time or Sqirl, shop vintage in Los Feliz, and wander through Echo Park Lake. Grab coffee at Intelligentsia, then hit a small concert or poetry night at The Virgil or Largo.

Day 7 – Turkish Touch & Farewell Vibes
To close the week, I’d take them to a taste of home with brunch at Cafe Istanbul or Sofra Urbana in Glendale. Then a relaxing afternoon at Descanso Gardens or The Huntington Library to unwind before their trip back. We’d finish with a heartfelt dinner and tea at my place or a quiet Turkish café, reflecting on the week.

LA can be chaotic, but if you know where to look, it’s filled with soul, culture, and inspiration. That’s the LA I love—and that’s the LA I’d want to share.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely—my journey as an artist wouldn’t have been possible without the love, support, and belief of so many incredible people along the way.

First and foremost, I want to thank my parents. My father was a shoemaker, and my mother was a housewife. They did their best to raise seven children with love, patience, and resilience. Growing up in Kangal, Türkiye, they were my source of strength and quiet wisdom. My mother’s unwavering belief in me, even when the path I chose was unconventional, gave me the courage to keep going. I’m also deeply grateful to my brothers and sisters, who have always supported me and shown me love throughout every stage of my journey. Their encouragement has meant the world to me.

I’m also deeply grateful to my director friend in Hong Kong who cast me in my first short film—with the help of my dear friend Selim, who is like a brother to me. We actually shot the film in brother Selim’s restaurant, which made the experience even more personal and meaningful. That moment reignited a spark in me that I had buried for years. Their belief in my talent opened the door to everything that followed.

My professors and mentors at Grossmont College in San Diego have had a profound impact on my growth, both as an actor and a human being. They challenged me to push deeper, to be honest in my work, and to embrace the vulnerability that great storytelling requires.

To my fellow creatives—actors, writers, directors, and filmmakers—thank you for inspiring me and reminding me why I love this craft. And to the artists who shaped my childhood—John Wayne, Steve McQueen, Marlon Brando, and Clint Eastwood—you sparked a dream in me long before I knew how to chase it.

Lastly, I want to give a heartfelt shoutout to all my family members and friends who supported me from day one. You never judged me for pursuing an unconventional path, and you stood by me through every uncertain moment. Your love and encouragement mean more than words can express.

No artist walks alone. I carry each of you with me in every step I take.

Instagram: mehmetkaynarofficial

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mehmet-kaynar-494aba72/

Facebook: Mehmet Kaynar

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@mehmetkaynarofficial