This qualitative study takes the Turkish historical dramas Resurrection: Ertuğrul and Payitaht Abdülhamid on Turkish state television as its sample. The paternalist leadership characteristics exhibited by the main characters in these series are examined. It is found that Ertugrul and Abdulhamid are showed as paternalistic leaders who protect, care for, being benevolent, patient and are self-sacrificing for their followers. They are depicted as strong father-like figures, which is an important paternalistic leadership indicator. In this context, it can be concluded that Turkish national broadcasting agencies are communicating a message to the public that paternalistic leadership is the traditional and expected leadership style for the next generation.