Love and Food stands out with its romantic-comedy tone. What were your first impressions when you read the script? What made you decide to join the project?
Hande Doğandemir: I think we all need heartwarming, hopeful stories that make us smile. I’ve always loved being part of romantic comedies. This one had everything that drew me in; the story itself, the director and writer, and the entire cast. Altogether, they were wonderful reasons to say yes to the role.
You portray a chef named Mercan in Love and Food. How did you prepare for the role? Did you do any special training or spend time in a real kitchen?
Hande Doğandemir: I already love being in the kitchen and cooking, so the idea of playing a chef really excited me. During preparation, I worked with Chef Deniz Şahin on both culinary techniques and Tokat cuisine, it was such an enjoyable process for me.
Hande Doğandemir: “I think we all need heartwarming, hopeful stories that make us smile.”
What was it like working with Uğur Güneş? How was your rehearsal process together?
Hande Doğandemir: Uğur is incredibly professional and such an easy partner to work with. Both during pre-production and on set, our collaboration was easy and enjoyable. The same goes for all my co-stars, working with everyone was a great experience.
Throughout your career, you’ve portrayed many different women. Mercan, however, is ambitious and driven, someone who’s always pushing herself to do better. How would you describe her?
Hande Doğandemir: Mercan is one of those women we all know well, real and relatable. She’s someone with her own struggles and dreams, working hard to achieve them. I’m really happy to have shared her journey.
This exclusive interview was featured in Episode Magazine’s ATF 2025 issue.
