Greek singer Giorgos Mazonakis has died at the age of 54, prompting record label Panik Records to pay tribute to the artist who had been part of its roster in recent years.
Panik Records published a black and white photograph of Mazonakis on its official Instagram account on September 9, 2026, describing him as a great artist who left his own mark on the Greek music scene. In a statement accompanying the post, the label expressed deep pain and unspeakable sadness, calling Mazonakis a unique voice and a man who left an indelible mark on Greek music and in people's hearts.
The singer suffered a cardiac arrest at the Stem Cell medical clinic in the Kolonaki district of central Athens during a plasmapheresis procedure. His sisters, Maria Mazonaki and Vaso Mazonaki, were seen weeping outside Elpis Hospital in Athens shortly after the announcement of their brother's death on September 9.
Police investigation into medical treatment
Greek Police established that the plasmapheresis treatment had already commenced when Mazonakis suffered the cardiac arrest. Security camera footage obtained by investigators revealed that Mazonakis entered the clinic shortly after 1:00 p.m., contradicting initial statements from clinic doctors who claimed he arrived after 4:00 p.m.
The procedure had been recommended by doctor Ioanna Gaka, who operates the Stem Cell clinic alongside her partner, doctor Theodoropoulos. Gaka testified that Mazonakis had visited the clinic a day prior to the treatment, at which time she informed him that plasmapheresis carried no side effects. Both doctors were arrested by police in connection with the singer's death on September 10 before being released following initial questioning, during which they maintained their defense and left without commenting to reporters. Patients had previously reported that booking an appointment with Gaka and Theodoropoulos was exceptionally difficult.
A prosecutor subsequently inspected the Kolonaki clinic, where investigators observed an interior featuring religious icons, a Samurai uniform, a sword, and a bicycle. The family of Mazonakis has appointed a technical advisor to assist with the investigation, with an autopsy scheduled for September 11 to determine the exact cause of death. Family members confirmed that while Mazonakis had intended to draft a will, he did not complete one before his passing, meaning his estate will pass entirely to his family.
Tributes from sports and entertainment figures
Tributes poured in from across Greek public life following news of his death. Basketball club Olympiacos BC released a statement bidding farewell to Mazonakis, stating that one of their own people had passed away and noting that the singer had never hidden his red and white fandom for the team. Media producer Acun Ilicali paid tribute by stating he would always remember Mazonakis exactly as he was, praising his unique soul and big heart.
Colleagues across the music industry expressed shock and grief over his sudden death. Singer Elena Paparizou described Mazonakis as one of a kind and an emperor of the music scene. Television presenter Giorgos Kapoutzidis expressed a wish that Mazonakis had loved himself more. Singer Elli Kokkinou paid an onstage tribute, stating that Mazonakis wanted to give immense love while seeking acceptance and appreciation from others. Singer Sakis Rouvas stated there were no words to express his grief and wished his friend a safe journey.
Businesswoman Despina Moiraraki shared a commemorative farewell video recalling a moment when Mazonakis impersonated her on camera. Paralympic athlete Giannis Sevdikalis shared a personal message thanking the late artist, stating that following his leg amputation, Mazonakis stood by his side in every possible way.
Television interview and career history
In his final television interview, Mazonakis spoke candidly about his past confinement at the Dromokaitio psychiatric hospital in Attica, as well as the ongoing dynamics within his family relationship.
Mazonakis began his singing career in his youth, with archival footage showing him performing songs by singer Giannis Parios at an 18th birthday school celebration. He gained early professional success performing in Patras before releasing his debut album, subsequently achieving widespread popularity through hit songs with composer Phoebus, singer Bougas, and the hip hop group Goin' Through. Friends recalled his personal routine, which he described as his favorite hour consisting of an open road, a car, and a song.
