Turkish actress Bennu Gerede, 54, was arrested on a charge of insulting public decency after she spoke about a piece of jewelry she wears around her neck during an appearance on an online podcast.
Gerede had shown the podcast hosts an item around her neck and revealed that it was in fact a vibrator. She said she liked to keep it always at hand.
What Gerede said on the podcast
A clip of the interview, posted by the outlet Kulis Magazin on X on August 2, 2026, shows Gerede describing the item as a product made for adults. She said she liked having it within reach whenever her libido rose, and that she could use it comfortably even in the toilet or while driving.
Istanbul prosecutors open an investigation
After the podcast episode was publicized, the Istanbul Public Prosecutor's Office opened an investigation into Gerede under the article of the Turkish Penal Code covering insulting public decency.
Prosecutors also asked for access to the specific podcast episode to be blocked within Turkey, arguing that its content violated the relevant legislation.
Reaction to the case
The case has caused strong reactions in Turkey and reignited debate over the limits of freedom of expression and artistic expression in the country.
