Nikos Galanos, one of the most beloved and recognisable faces of Greek cinema and television, has passed away at the age of 79 after a year-long battle with cancer.
Galanos began his film career in 1970 during the twilight of Greek cinema’s golden era, starring alongside Aliki Vougiouklaki in A Funny Girl. The pair reunited on screen two years later in Aliki Diktator.
He went on to act alongside some of Greece’s most iconic actors, including Nikos Kourkoulos (Zero Visibility, Straphogianno), Betty Livanou (The Sin of Beauty), and Rena Vlahopoulou (Rena is Off-Side).
With his expressive eyes, dark hair and charming smile, Galanos quickly became a romantic lead in Greek film and television. His good looks, dedication, and undeniable talent sustained a career spanning more than five decades.

Early in his career, he also made notable contributions to theatre. He debuted on stage with Jenny Karezi and Kostas Kazakos in The Lady Doesn’t Care, followed by A Story from Irkutsk. He later performed with the Vougiouklaki–Papamichail troupe and eventually made his first appearance at the National Theatre in Play Strindberg.
However, it was television that truly cemented his popularity. His TV debut came in 1974 with The Just, followed by Journey in 1976. Over the decades, Galanos became a household name, appearing in dozens of series across both public and private networks.
Nikos Galanos leaves behind a legacy of elegance, emotional depth, and enduring contribution to Greek performing arts, both on screen and stage.
Source: Protothema.gr