The Museum of Innocence: A Heartfelt Turkish Romance on Netflix

Published by Julie de Sortiraparis · Updated on February 12, 2026 at 07:06 p.m.
Based on Orhan Pamuk's novel, The Museum of Innocence tells the story of an obsessive love affair in 1970s Istanbul, premiering on Netflix on February 13, 2026.

A new Turkish series is set to land on Netflix on February 13, 2026. The Museum of Innocence is an adaptation of Orhan Pamuk’s acclaimed novel, a major work in contemporary international literature. Directed by Zeynep Günay and scripted by Ertan Kurtulan, the series is a romantic drama spanning nine episodes of around 60 minutes each, set against the vibrant backdrop of 1970s Istanbul—an era marked by social upheaval, class divisions, and passions that leave an indelible mark.

Kemal, heir to one of Istanbul’s wealthiest families, lives a life that aligns perfectly with his social background. His world is upended when he meets Füsun, a distant cousin from a modest background. Their secret relationship, fueled by passion and forbidden desire, unfolds within a society where social norms govern every decision. The budding love quickly clashes with the rigid rules of a static world.

When their story falls apart, Kemal plunges into a silent obsession. He begins to collect objects that belonged to Füsun—earrings, hairpins, cigarette butts—as fragments of a lost happiness. The series delves into this emotional spiral, where memory becomes a sanctuary, and love turns into an endless quest for meaning and innocence.

The trailer for The Museum of Innocence

 

Failing faithfully to the universe of Orhan Pamuk, the series captures with precision the atmosphere of Istanbul in the 1970s, a city caught between emerging modernity and enduring traditions. Ahmet Sesigurgil’s cinematography and the meticulous set design overseen by Murat Güney work together to create a captivating immersion into a pivotal moment in Turkish history.

Selahattin Paşalı portrays Kemal, a complex and introspective figure, while Eylül Lize Kandemir brings to life Füsun—an character both idolized and constrained by her social circumstances. Surrounding them, a cast of supporting characters—including performances by Oya Unustası, Tilbe Saran, and Ercan Kesal—paints a nuanced portrait of Istanbul’s bourgeoisie and its inherent contradictions.

With its slow, contemplative pace and focus on deep emotions, The Museum of Innocence appeals to fans of epic romantic dramas and sophisticated literary adaptations. The series explores the complexities of love, teetering between obsession, pain, and unreachable ideals, while also offering a thoughtful meditation on memory and the passage of time.

The Museum of Innocence Series | 2026
Season 1 debuts on Netflix on February 13, 2026
Drama, Romance | 9 episodes of 60 minutes each
Directed by Zeynep Günay | Starring Selahattin Paşalı, Eylül Kandemir, Oya Unustası
Original title: Masumiyet Müzesi
Country: Turkey

With this ambitious adaptation, Netflix offers a poignant dive into an intense love story, where personal emotions intertwine with the social changes of a city and a time period.

To explore even further, check out our curated list of Netflix new releases for February, our comprehensive guide to latest streaming releases across all platforms, and today's top pick in what to watch in streaming today.

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Dates and Opening Time
Starts February 13, 2026

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.
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