Turkish Authorities Launch Probe into Girl Band “Manifest” After Istanbul Show

Istanbul, September 7, 2025 — Turkish prosecutors have launched an investigation into the six-member girl band Manifest following an 18+ performance in Istanbul that reportedly crossed the line of “public morals.” The concert, held outdoors and attended by around 12,000 people, was both a commercial success and flashpoint of controversy.

From Reality TV to Pop Sensation: The Rise of Manifest

Manifest emerged earlier this year through the reality TV format Big5 Türkiye, selecting its final lineup of six members. The group represents the genres of pop, dance, and R&B, with each member bringing a unique background to the ensemble:

• Yearning to redefine Turkish pop, they released their debut single, “Zamansızdık”, which quickly garnered millions of streams.

• Subsequent singles like “Arıyo”, “KTS (Kalbimin Tek Sahibi)”, and “Snap” further cemented their popularity.

• Their first studio album, Manifestival, was released in mid-June and topped music charts in Turkey and beyond.

• To support the album launch, they hosted their own “Manifestival” festival, which sold out within hours and drew thousands to Istanbul’s outskirts.

• The album’s deluxe edition, released in early September, added remixes by notable artists such as Arem & Arman, Zeki Arkun, Motive, and AYDEED.

This rise—complemented by media appearances, cover features, and high-production performances—has made Manifest a cultural phenomenon and a powerful voice for a new generation.

Cultural Clash: Youth Expression vs. Morality Crackdown

Manifest’s bold visuals, choreographed routines, and flashy production have won them a devoted following—especially among younger audiences. Yet, these same elements triggered backlash from conservative segments and government officials.

Following the Istanbul concert, videos of the show were reviewed by prosecutors, who deemed certain choreography and staging potentially “indecent” and contrary to “public morals.” This follows prior incidents:

• A previously scheduled Manifest show in the conservative city of Erzurum was canceled due to objections over the group’s costumes.

• In the past, cultural festivals such as the Nilufer Music Festival in Bursa (2023) and Anadolu Fest in Eskişehir (2022) were blocked on similar grounds of morality or public order.

Such interventions reflect a broader tightening grip on cultural expression, where authorities increasingly cite public morality or order to restrict performances that deviate from traditional norms.

Voices of Support: Artists Rally Behind Manifest

The investigation has catalyzed a wave of solidarity from the artistic community. Many see this not merely as a legal move but as an attack on creative freedom:

• Prominent artists and fans have taken to social media, condemning the probe as an affront to women’s expression and artistic autonomy.

• They argue that dismissing performances on the basis of conservative moral judgment undermines the progressive, diverse spirit of modern Turkish art.

Amid criticism, Manifest remains undeterred. With over a dozen upcoming shows on the calendar, the group appears poised to continue their momentum—and challenge the status quo.

Why It Matters

• Symbolic of Generational Shift: Manifest captures the aspirations of Turkey’s youth—confident, expressive, and glued to global pop culture trends.

• A Cultural Flashpoint: The clash between progressive performance art and conservative state scrutiny encapsulates broader tensions in modern Turkish society.

• A Test for Artistic Freedom: The outcome of this investigation may become a litmus test for how much creative expression is permitted in Turkey’s evolving political landscape.