The Bad Penny (Üç Kuruş) is a Turkish action, crime, and drama series that blends suspense, mystery, and emotional storytelling. Set in the vibrant Romani neighborhood of Çıngıraklı in Istanbul, the series follows the unexpected alliance between a determined police officer and a powerful crime boss as they hunt down a dangerous serial killer. Filled with thrilling investigations, family conflicts, and shocking revelations, The Bad Penny offers an engaging story about justice, loyalty, revenge, and survival.
TV Series Details
| Detail | Information |
| Original Title | Üç Kuruş |
| English Title | The Bad Penny |
| Genre | Action, Crime, Drama |
| Episodes | 28 |
| Episode Duration | 120–150 Minutes |
| Broadcast Network | Show TV |
| Broadcast Period | November 1, 2021 – May 30, 2022 |
| Production Company | Ay Yapım |
| Producer | Kerem Çatay |
| Director | Sinan Öztürk |
| Screenwriters | Damla Serim, Murat Uyurkulak, Eset Akçilad |
| Music | Toygar Işıklı |
| Filming Location | Istanbul, Turkey |
Synopsis
The story revolves around Efe, a fearless police captain working in Istanbul’s organized crime division. Efe has spent months trying to gather enough evidence to arrest Kartal, a powerful crime leader who controls the Romani neighborhood of Çıngıraklı. Despite knowing about Kartal’s illegal activities, Efe cannot find the proof necessary to bring him to justice.
Kartal is respected by the residents of Çıngıraklı because he protects his community from outside threats. Although he operates illegal businesses, he considers himself a guardian of the neighborhood and values loyalty above everything else.
The situation changes dramatically when a series of brutal murders shocks the city. The victims are all found with three pennies left at the crime scene, leading the media to nickname the killer “The Three Pennies Murderer.” The murders are connected to İrfan, a mysterious man seeking revenge for events from his past.
To stop the killer, Efe and Kartal are forced to put aside their rivalry and work together. Their uneasy partnership uncovers hidden secrets, dangerous enemies, and shocking truths that threaten everyone involved.
Main Cast
| Actor | Character |
| Uraz Kaygılaroğlu | Kartal |
| Ekin Koç | Efe |
| Diren Polatoğulları | İrfan |
| Nesrin Cavadzade | Bahar |
| Aslıhan Malbora | Leyla |
| Nursel Köse | Neriman |
| Civan Canova | Oktay |
| Ercan Kesal | Halit |
| Mustafa Kırantepe | Ruşen |
| Uğur Yıldıran | Şesu |
| Umutcan Ütebay | Şahin |
| Damla Makar | Halide |
Additional Cast
| Actor | Character |
| Zafer Algöz | Nezih |
| Melissa Yıldırımer | Nesrin |
| Aytaç Uşun | Batuhan |
| Süreyya Kilimci | Semiha |
| Cenk Kangöz | Mesut |
| Alişan Uğur | Konyalı |
| Burak Altay | Bülent |
| Muttalip Müjdeci | Şahir |
| Asena Girişken | Perihan |
| Tuğçe Yolcu | Hazal |
| Emrullah Çakay | Atilla |
| Aylin Engör | Neşe |
| Volkan Kıran | Kamil |
| Cüneyt Yalaz | Adnan |
| Goncagül Sunar | Aysel |
| Canan Atalay | Yeşim |
Character Details
Kartal (Uraz Kaygılaroğlu)
Kartal is the charismatic and influential leader of Çıngıraklı. Although he is involved in criminal activities, he is admired by local residents for protecting the neighborhood. He believes in loyalty, family, and community, making him one of the most complex characters in the series.
Efe (Ekin Koç)
Efe is a determined police captain dedicated to fighting organized crime. He is fearless, intelligent, and relentless in his pursuit of justice. Despite viewing Kartal as a criminal, he eventually realizes that working together is the only way to catch the serial killer.
İrfan (Diren Polatoğulları)
İrfan is the mysterious serial killer whose murders drive the central storyline. He works as a musician and appears quiet and reserved, but his tragic past fuels a dangerous desire for revenge. His actions create fear throughout Istanbul.
Bahar (Nesrin Cavadzade)
Bahar is an important figure in Kartal’s life. She becomes deeply involved in the events surrounding the murders and plays a key role in the emotional and personal conflicts of the story.
Leyla (Aslıhan Malbora)
Leyla is a strong and independent woman whose relationships with several key characters influence many major developments throughout the series. She becomes involved in both personal and criminal conflicts.
Neriman (Nursel Köse)
Neriman is a powerful and respected woman within the community. Her influence extends across many storylines, and her decisions often affect the lives of the people around her.
Oktay (Civan Canova)
Oktay is one of the influential figures connected to the criminal underworld. His power and connections make him an important player in the ongoing struggle between law enforcement and organized crime.
Halit (Ercan Kesal)
Halit is an experienced and respected character whose wisdom and influence help shape many of the important events throughout the series.
Ruşen (Mustafa Kırantepe)
Ruşen is one of Kartal’s most trusted allies. Loyal and dependable, he supports Kartal during difficult situations and plays an important role within the Çıngıraklı community.
Şesu (Uğur Yıldıran)
Şesu is a close associate of Kartal and an active member of his inner circle. His loyalty and commitment make him a valuable ally during the investigation and conflicts that unfold.
Read: All About Marriage (Evlilik Hakkinda Hersey) TV Series.
The Bad Penny (Üç Kuruş) is a gripping Turkish crime drama that combines action, mystery, and emotional depth. Through the unlikely partnership between police captain Efe and crime boss Kartal, the series explores the blurred line between law and crime while delivering suspenseful twists and memorable characters. With its unique setting, strong cast performances, and compelling storyline, The Bad Penny stands out as one of the most engaging Turkish crime dramas of recent years.