ATV Distribution has secured the first international sale of its drama series Different Lives (Altı Üstü İstanbul), with streaming platform Noor Play acquiring the rights to the series for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Under the agreement, the Turkish drama will be made available simultaneously with its domestic broadcast across 20 countries in the region.

Since premiering on ATV Turkey in June, Different Lives has emerged as one of the season’s strongest-performing dramas, maintaining solid ratings from its debut. The series has attracted viewers with its emotional storyline, layered characters and depiction of the contrasting social realities of modern-day Istanbul.

The drama follows Emir, a gifted young footballer from a disadvantaged neighbourhood who hopes to lift his family out of poverty while fulfilling the ambitions his father was unable to achieve. His life is turned upside down when his disabled brother, Bahtiyar, dies during a violent football match.

Believing the tragedy was an accident, Emir accepts an opportunity to join a football club owned by powerful businessman Galip. However, he is unaware that Galip’s son, Uzay, has a connection to the circumstances surrounding his brother’s death.

As Emir enters a world dominated by wealth, influence and hidden interests, he becomes caught in an intense rivalry both on and off the football pitch. While striving to protect his family and pursue his ambitions, he meets a young woman who challenges his beliefs and changes the course of his life.

As secrets linked to Bahtiyar’s death gradually come to light, Emir must decide whether to protect the future he has worked toward or risk everything to uncover the truth.

Blending family drama, romance, ambition, suspense and football, Different Lives explores themes of resilience, justice and self-discovery while examining the collision between different social classes. Its fast-paced narrative and universal themes are expected to support its appeal among audiences across the region.

Müge Akar, ATV’s Group Head of Sales & Distribution, said: “The early success of Different Lives demonstrates the strength of its story and characters. We are pleased to launch the series internationally through this first MENA deal and look forward to bringing this compelling drama to audiences across many more territories.”

The acquisition also reflects the continued demand for premium Turkish dramas across the Middle East and North Africa. Through Noor Play, Different Lives is expected to reach audiences across 20 countries, building on its domestic performance and expanding its presence among regional viewers.