Athens, Greece – The Greek folk music community is mourning the loss of Panos Plastiras, a celebrated clarinet virtuoso, who passed away at the age of 60 after battling cancer. Hailing from Angelokastro, Plastiras left an indelible mark on traditional music, collaborating with prominent singers and recording numerous albums.
A highlight of his career came when legendary composer Mikis Theodorakis handpicked him—after extensive auditions of top clarinetists—to perform orchestrated versions of his songs, showcasing Plastiras’ exceptional talent.
His death has sent waves of sorrow through the world of Greek folk music, where he was revered for his mastery and contributions.
Related News: Beloved Actress Rania Ioannidou Dies at 89
In another loss to the Greek entertainment world, actress Rania Ioannidou, best known for her role as the nosy priest’s wife Marika in the hit TV series To Kafé tis Haras (Joy’s Café), passed away at 89. Journalist Nikos Nikolizas announced her death on Saturday.
Ioannidou gained widespread recognition for her roles in popular series like Dyo Xenoi (Two Strangers) and To Kafé tis Haras. Her career began in 1959 with a small role in the film Wedding Adventures alongside Dino Iliopoulos. She went on to appear in films such as Aliki in the Navy (1961), Island of Temptations (1961), and later Twenty Women and Me (1973) with Kostas Voutsas.
Her television debut came in 1977 with ERT’s The Village Photographer, followed by a prolific career in voice acting for animated series like Candy Candy, The Smurfs, and Sailor Moon. From 1985 to 1989, she featured in ten Greek video films, a popular genre at the time. Notable TV roles included the intrusive neighbor Marianthi Mantouna in Dyo Xenoi (1997-1999) and Marika in To Kafé tis Haras (2003-2006), cementing her legacy as a beloved figure in Greek comedy.
Ioannidou’s final public moment was a heartwarming one—celebrating her 89th birthday with a smile that left a lasting impression on fans.
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