Nejat Uygur was a renowned Turkish actor and comedian, born as the second of three children to an officer father and teacher mother. He had a strong foundation in the performing arts, already taking to the stage during his school years.
Uygur attended the Academy of Fine Arts, now known as Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University, to study sculpture, although he did not complete his studies. Instead, he pursued a career in theatre, establishing his own "Nejat Uygur Theatre" in the late 1940s. He went on to tour the country with his theatre troupe, performing a wide range of comedy plays that left a lasting impression on audiences.
Some of his most notable comedy plays include Cibali Karakolu, Kaynanatör, Hastane mi Kestane mi?, Migferine Çiçek Eken Asker, Minti Minti, Sizinki Can da Bizimki Patlican mi?, Son Umudum Milli Piyango, Seyini Sey Ettigimin Seyi, Seytandan 29 Gün Evvel Dogan Çocuk, Zamsalak, Alo Orasi Timarhane mi?, Aman Özal Duymasin, and Benim Annem Evden Neden Kaçti?
In addition to his work in theatre, Uygur also appeared in several films, including the notable Cafer Bey. His last appearances were in Beyaz Melek and Vizontele Tuubaa.
Throughout his career, Uygur shared the stage with his sons, Süheyl and Behzat, in numerous plays.
Tragedy struck on September 10, 2009, when Uygur was hospitalized in Istanbul due to a Watershed stroke that left him paralyzed on the left side of his body. He continued to receive treatment until his passing on November 18, 2013, at the age of 86, due to sepsis.
Uygur is survived by his wife, Necla Uygur, and his five sons, Ahmet, Süheyl, Süha, Kemal, and Behzat Uygur.
A memorial ceremony was held at the Cemal Resit Rey Concert Hall, followed by a religious funeral at the Tesvikiye Mosque, before Uygur was laid to rest at the Zincirlikuyu Cemetery.
In recognition of his contributions to Turkish theatre and culture, Uygur was honored with the title State Artist in 1998 by the Ministry of Culture.
