Turkish-American actress Defne Foster to appear as AI form in film

Fourteen years after her tragic passing, beloved actress and TV personality Defne Joy Foster is set to make a virtual return to the screen. It was recently announced that she will appear through artificial intelligence in the upcoming film adaptation of Sihirli Annem (My Magical Mom), an iconic Turkish TV series that captured hearts across generations.

Foster, who portrayed the unforgettable character Eda in the original series, passed away in 2011, leaving behind a deep void in the Turkish entertainment world. Her death, caused by cardiac arrest related to asthma and a reaction between alcohol and medication, shocked fans and fellow artists alike.

Originally airing in 2003, My Magical Mom quickly became a staple of Turkish television, loved by viewers young and old. Over the years, tributes to Foster and her character in remakes and reruns of the show have moved fans to tears. Now, with a film adaptation in the works 22 years after the show's debut, the creators have taken an emotional leap forward by planning to digitally recreate Foster using artificial intelligence.

News of her AI-powered appearance quickly spread across social media, where fans shared heartfelt reactions. Many expressed how emotional it would be to see her on screen again — even virtually — with some stating they wouldn’t be able to hold back tears if the rumors are true.

Who was Defne Joy Foster?

Born on September 2, 1975 in Adana, Türkiye, Defne Joy Foster was the daughter of a Turkish mother from Izmir and an American father. She grew up in Izmir and completed her education there, later stepping into the limelight as a video jockey (VJ) on Kral TV before moving into acting.

Over the years, she became a familiar face in Turkish households, thanks to roles in several TV series. Her magnetic charm and lively spirit made her a standout in every role, with My Magical Mom's “Eda” becoming one of her most iconic.