Greek Actor Spyros Fokas Dies at 86

Renowned Greek actor Spyros Fokas, distinguished for his contributions to the world of cinema, has died at the age of 86. The news was confirmed by his wife, Lillian Fokas, who shared the sad update on Facebook.

“Till we meet again, my Spyro,” Lillian tenderly expressed, accompanied by the melancholic strains of “Ta deilina,” by Giorgos Zambetas.

Condolences poured in from friends and admirers on her Facebook page. People paid their respects to the acclaimed actor, acknowledging his significant international contributions to the world of cinema.

Facing grave health challenges in recent years, Fokas resided in Corinthia with his wife, Greek media note. He had reportedly spent the last few months in a rehabilitation center in Magoula.

At the end of October, his wife shared another photo of the actor in which he was depicted in bed at the center. Fokas’ health problems began three years ago, beginning with treatment in the Corinthian hospital and a subsequent transfer to Athens.

 

The Life and Career of Spyros Fokas in Cinema

Spyros Fokas, originally named Spyros Androutsopoulos, was born in Patras on August 17, 1937. He established a significant career abroad, gracing films such as Luchino Visconti’s Rocco and His Brothers,  The Jewel of the Nile and Rambo 3. His globally recognizable face and immense talent secured him roles in some of cinema’s most opulent productions.

Raised in Athens from the age of nine, Fokas, the son of a travel agent and a Corfu native mother, developed a keen interest in drama early on, eventually deciding to pursue acting.

Πέθανε ο Σπύρος Φωκάς σε ηλικία 86 ετών. Ξεπήδησε το 1959 παίζοντας στο Ματωμένο Ηλιοβασίλεμα του Ανδρέα Λαμπρινού. Την ίδια χρονιά πέρασε στην Ιταλία παίζοντας στα Death Of A Friend, Messalina και φυσικά στο Rocco and His Brothers (1960) του Visconti δίπλα στην Παξινού. /1 pic.twitter.com/ZllvACobdr

— Thanassis (@theiosthanassis) November 10, 2023

A graduate of the Kostis Michaelidis School of Drama, Fokas spent numerous years living and working in the US before returning to Greece. He made a name for himself in the US, and this played a pivotal role in his personal journey. He also influenced subsequent Greek actors upon his return.

Fokas was among the first to establish an international acting career for himself. His cinematic debut in 1959 with Andreas Lambrino’s Bloody Sunset at the Cannes Film Festival marked the commencement of his international acclaim.

Returning to Greece in the mid-’60s, Fokas collaborated with Giannis Dalianidis in films like Egoism and Stefania. The actor continued to navigate between continents, captivating audiences with his talent.

However, the pinnacle of recognition arrived with his role in Franco Rossi’s The Death of a Friend, earning him an acting award at the Locarno Film Festival.

Fokas entered into matrimony four times throughout his lifetime. His first marriage was at the age of twenty, while his last was at seventy-six years of age.