Greek singer Makis Christodoulopoulos has ruled out serving as a judge on television talent shows, saying he could not bear to make contestants cry.
Speaking during an interview on the morning television show To Proino on Monday, November 2, the veteran performer explained that he would never want to deliver harsh feedback to young participants.
Christodoulopoulos said that telling an aspiring singer they are not suited for the profession would only leave them in tears, which made him categorically unwilling to sit on a judging panel.
Criticism and young contestants
The singer argued that judging formats place unrealistic pressure on young performers who are only starting out. He asked what anyone could possibly say to a young child on such a broadcast, pointing out that blunt criticism can crush a young person's confidence.
Television talent shows have remained a major fixture on Greek networks for years, with established musicians frequently invited to evaluate amateur contestants. Christodoulopoulos, however, insisted that he would not participate in handing out rejections on screen.
Changes in Greek folk music
During the broadcast, Christodoulopoulos reflected on the evolution of the Greek music scene, noting that the industry has shifted away from traditional styles. He said that Greece once produced many great performers, but new artists are no longer coming forward to sing laiko, the country's traditional urban folk music.
Laiko music has deep roots in Greek working class culture, traditionally driven by the bouzouki and focused on themes of love, grief, and resilience. Christodoulopoulos said that the contemporary musical landscape has become far more modern and continues to change, leaving fewer opportunities for traditional folk singers to break through.
Career and humility
Drawing on his decades in show business, Christodoulopoulos emphasised that success should never lead to arrogance. He noted that he has worked in the music industry for many years and has experienced both the positive and negative aspects of the profession.
He explained that he does not have a large family and remains dedicated to his craft simply because he loves the work. He added that no matter how well an artist sings or how famous they become, the most important rule is to remain humble and never carry one's nose high in the air.
Born in western Greece, Christodoulopoulos built a long career as a prominent vocalist and clarinetist, earning widespread popularity in Greek nightlife venues and bouzoukia clubs from the late 1970s onwards.
Personal faith and home chapel
Christodoulopoulos also spoke openly about his religious convictions during the interview, placing his faith at the centre of his daily life. He stated that he naturally believes in God, putting God first above everything else.
The singer said that he regularly attends church, explaining that people rely on God, Jesus Christ, and the Virgin Mary. He added that his devotion is a constant part of his domestic routine, revealing that he maintains a church at his own residence.
