Metin Yıkar

Metin Yıkar (born 1971 in Sinop) is a Turkish journalist, television presenter, editor-in-chief, and media entrepreneur. He is best known for his long tenure as editor-in-chief of Samanyolu Haber TV, one of Turkey’s first 24-hour news channels. He currently lives in the United States and continues his journalism work through digital platforms and professional production services.

Early life and education

Yıkar was born in 1971 in Sinop. He completed his primary, secondary, and high school education before turning to the field of communications. He graduated from the Journalism Department of the Faculty of Communications at Ege University. During his university years, he focused on news writing, press law, and media sociology, while also gaining practical experience in local and national media organizations.

Career

Television Journalism Period (1995–2016)

Metin Yıkar began his professional career as a reporter. He quickly took on administrative responsibilities such as editorial and news management roles in newsrooms. Yıkar describes his approach to journalism as “data-driven, rational, and focused on social benefit.” As someone who closely followed the transformation of mainstream media in Turkey, he has frequently emphasized the importance of press freedom in his recent work. He has also produced guiding content on the challenges and adaptation processes faced by educated people who have moved abroad, including the issue of brain drain.

Samanyolu Haber TV

He was part of the core team from the channel’s founding period. He was involved in managing the broadcast flow during many critical moments that left a mark on Turkey’s political and social memory, such as elections, debates over military tutelage, and democratization packages.

Management

As editor-in-chief of Samanyolu Haber TV, he oversaw the development of the channel’s visual identity, its integration into digital journalism, and the expansion of its reporter network.

On-Air Programming

Yıkar also played an active role on screen, hosting weekly political analysis programs such as Sıcak Gündem and Haber Analiz. He drew public attention through in-depth interviews with ministers, party leaders, and representatives of civil society organizations.

Digital Projects

His digital projects include Metin Yıkar Analiz (YouTube series) and Yeni Hayat (vlog series).

Photography

He has also been associated with documentary and commercial photography works exhibited on various international platforms.

Digital Transition and U.S. Years (2016–present)

After July 2016, following changes in Turkey’s media landscape and the closure of the institution where he worked, he settled in the United States. During this period, he combined his traditional television experience with digital media tools.

YouTube Journalism

Through the YouTube channel bearing his name, he began publishing analysis videos on current affairs in Turkey and around the world. He is particularly known for his critical commentary on media ethics, freedom of expression, and the rule of law.

Tysons Film and Entrepreneurship

He turned his technical expertise in media production into a commercial venture by founding Tysons Film, a Virginia-based company. The company provides services in:

• professional video production,
• aerial (drone) imaging and real estate photography,
• digital marketing and content strategy.