atv’s new series Aşk ve Taht (Love and the Throne) has released a new promotional video.
The new footage from the Bozdağ Film production also highlights Bosnian actress Merjem Šiljak, who plays Alanya Princess Destina. The promo offers new clues about Destina’s story, which unfolds at the intersection of love, revenge, belonging and the struggle for power, as well as her path crossing with Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat.
What Is ‘Aşk ve Taht (Love and the Throne)’ About?
Set during one of the most powerful periods of the Anatolian Seljuk State, Aşk ve Taht (Love and the Throne) combines its historical setting with power struggles and personal relationships.
Alanya Princess Destina is set to become one of the key figures in the story. Torn between her identity, sense of belonging and the struggle for power, Destina’s path will eventually intersect with that of Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat.
The new promo gives viewers a closer look at Destina and raises curiosity about the role she will play in the series.
Who Is Merjem Šiljak?
Merjem Šiljak, who plays Destina, studied acting at the Academy of Performing Arts in Sarajevo, one of Bosnia and Herzegovina’s prominent performing arts schools. Aşk ve Taht (Love and the Throne) marks the actress’s first major leading role in Turkey.
Šiljak was selected for the role following auditions involving international actors. In preparation for Destina, she received training in Turkish, diction and drama, alongside her acting work.
She also underwent horse-riding and archery training as part of the physical preparation required for the period drama.

How Did Merjem Šiljak Prepare for Destina?
Šiljak’s preparation for the role extended beyond physical training. She worked with directors Yağmur Taylan, Durul Taylan and Cem Toluay on Destina’s character development, inner world and transformation throughout the story.
The actress also studied Destina’s identity as the Princess of Alanya, her sense of belonging and her connection to Sultan Alaeddin Keykubat. With guidance from the series’ historical consultants, she learned about the social structure of the period, Seljuk palace life and the customs of the era.
The new promo offers a first substantial glimpse of Šiljak in costume as Destina. As Aşk ve Taht (Love and the Throne) prepares to bring its story of love, revenge and power to the screen, Destina’s place in the unfolding story remains one of the series’ intriguing elements.
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