While the Ottoman Empire is long gone and its heirs spent decades in exile, the descendants of Suleiman and Hurrem continue to stay connected, preserving their traditions and even meeting annually. Despite no longer residing in the imperial palaces of Istanbul, royal blood and a shared memory of greatness unite them.
Osman Ertuğrul Osmanoğlu — The Last Ottoman Prince
The last direct heir to hold the title of ruling prince was Osman Ertuğrul Osmanoğlu. As a child, he left his homeland and spent much of his life in Austria and the United States. After 68 years, he was finally able to return to the Ottoman Palace. Osman passed away in 2009, leaving behind a symbolic legacy: the hope for his family to one day reunite as a cohesive lineage.
Osman Salahaddin Osmanoğlu — The Wise Historian
Osman Salahaddin Osmanoğlu, a direct descendant of Sultan Murad V, shared his thoughts on the popular series Magnificent Century. He approached criticism of historical inaccuracies with calm, reminding audiences that the show is a work of art, not a documentary. Osman also pointed out that the real Sultan Suleiman was far too occupied with military campaigns to spend as much time in the harem as portrayed on screen.
Orhan Murad Osmanoğlu — A Businessman in England
Osman Salahaddin’s son, Orhan Murad, resides in England, where he works in investments and raises his sons. He acknowledged the global popularity of Magnificent Century, even if it fictionalized aspects of Ottoman history. Orhan noted that while the show may not align with his personal preferences, it provides jobs and opportunities for many people, which is ultimately more important.
Roxanne Kunters — A Royal Descendant and TV Star
The women of the Osman family have been intrigued by the depiction of harem life. Roxanne Kunters, a great-granddaughter of Abdul Hamid II, has made her mark as a Turkish TV presenter and sports star. In an interview, she revealed her admiration for Meryem Uzerli’s performance as Hurrem and shared that she was initially considered for the role herself.
Fatma Nazlishah Osmanoğlu — Keeper of Ottoman Traditions
Fatma Nazlishah, the granddaughter of the last sultan, Mehmed VI, was born before the fall of the empire and endured exile, eventually returning to Turkey in 1957. Her life was marked by dramatic changes: after marrying an Egyptian prince, she moved to Egypt, where her children were born. Until her death in 2012, Fatma remained a guardian of her family’s traditions and a living symbol of Ottoman heritage.
The legacy of Hurrem and Suleiman continues to shine through their descendants, a bridge between history and modernity, reminding us of a past filled with grandeur, challenges, and enduring familial bonds.
