ALBAWABA - The Arabic series 'Black Love' (Hub Aswad) is bringing a familiar Turkish love story to Arab audiences with a new cast, different character names and a fresh cultural setting. Since its premiere on MBC Shahid on October 18, 2026, the drama has attracted attention from viewers interested in how the new version compares with the hit Turkish series Endless Love (Kara Sevda).
The two series share the central story of a romance threatened by social differences, family pressure and a rival who refuses to accept rejection. However, viewers watching both versions may notice that the characters have different names, making the cast comparisons particularly interesting.
Samer Ismail and Burak Özçivit: Faris and Kemal
Syrian actor Samer Ismail leads 'Black Love' as Faris, a man whose love story is shaped by separation, loss and the secrets of the past. His character corresponds to Kemal Soydere, portrayed by Turkish actor Burak Özçivit in Endless Love.
In the original series, Kemal comes from a modest family and falls in love with Nihan, a young woman from a wealthy background. Their relationship faces obstacles that eventually separate them, setting the stage for the drama’s central conflict.
In the Arabic adaptation, Faris experiences a similarly complicated relationship with Lana. After years away, he returns to confront the circumstances that changed their lives and uncover the truth behind her marriage.
Valerie Abou Chacra and Neslihan Atagül: Lana and Nihan
Lebanese actress Valerie Abou Chacra plays Lana, the female lead in Black Love. In the Turkish original, the corresponding role is Nihan Sezin, played by Neslihan Atagül.
Both characters find themselves caught between love and the expectations imposed on them by their families and circumstances. Lana’s relationship with Faris becomes increasingly complicated when Majd enters her life, leaving her facing difficult choices about her future.
Nihan faces a comparable struggle in Endless Love. Her relationship with Kemal is challenged by her family’s circumstances and Emir’s determination to control her life. The two versions place their heroines at the centre of a conflict involving love, personal freedom and family pressure.
Yamen Hegli and Kaan Urgancıoğlu: Majd and Emir
Syrian actor Yamen Hegli plays Majd, the character who becomes a major obstacle to Faris and Lana’s relationship. His counterpart in Endless Love is Emir Kozcuoğlu, portrayed by Kaan Urgancıoğlu.
Emir is one of the original series’ central antagonists. Coming from a wealthy and influential family, he becomes determined to have Nihan, even when she does not share his feelings. His actions drive much of the conflict that separates her from Kemal.
Majd occupies a similar position in the Arabic version. His desire to control Lana’s future turns the love story into a more intense struggle, particularly as Faris returns and begins confronting what happened during his absence.
Beyond its three leading actors, 'Black Love' features a large ensemble of established performers from Syrian and Lebanese television.
The cast includes Ward Al-Khal, Abdul Hakim Qutayfan, Talal Al-Jurdi, Lin Gharra, Ayman Abdul Salam, Majd Fadda, Nahla Daoud, Darina Al-Jundi, Pedros Barsoumian, Zuhair Abdul Karim, Sasha Dahdouh and Elias Al-Zayek. The actors portray characters whose relationships and family histories add further complications to the central love triangle.
The series is listed as an MBC Studios production and is available on MBC Shahid. Its release began on October 18, 2026, with episodes made available in stages during its launch period.
How Is ‘Black Love’ Different From ‘Endless Love’?
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The original 'Endless Love' premiered in Turkey in 2015 and starred Burak Özçivit, Neslihan Atagül and Kaan Urgancıoğlu. Produced by Ay Yapım, the series became internationally recognised for its tragic romance and emotionally charged family conflicts.
The Arabic version retains the central dynamic between the lovers and the man determined to separate them, but adapts the characters and their surroundings for a new audience. Faris takes Kemal’s place, Lana corresponds to Nihan, and Majd fills the role occupied by Emir.
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For viewers familiar with the Turkish original, these parallels offer a way to follow the new adaptation while discovering how its cast interprets the familiar characters. For new viewers, 'Black Love' presents a story of love, control, separation and secrets that gradually come to light.
Zaid Qaissieh is a passionate English news and content writer with a knack for storytelling and an eye for detail. covering a range of Entertainment topics—from breaking global news and trending entertainment stories to insightful pieces—I bring a creative edge to every article. Zaid aims to engage, inform, and inspire readers, balancing well-researched content with a fresh, accessible voice.
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