Greek music icon Marinella suffered a stroke mid-performance on Wednesday night during a concert at Athens’ Herod Atticus Theatre. The 86-year-old singer lost her balance and collapsed on stage while performing her third song.
The concert, which was also set to feature Greek singer Antonis Remos, was immediately cancelled. Marinella was rushed to Hygeia Hospital, where she is currently receiving treatment.
According to a statement released by Hygeia Hospital on Thursday, “Marinella is currently being treated in the intensive care unit for severe brain bleeding.” Her condition remains critical.
Born Kyriaki Papadopoulou in Thessaloniki in May 1938, Marinella adopted her stage name early in her career, which began in the mid-1950s. With a career spanning over six decades, Marinella has become a household name for generations of Greeks.
Despite her advanced age, Marinella has maintained a commanding stage presence well into her 80s. Her passion for music was evident from an early age, with her first public performance at around four or five years old, singing a song by Austrian composer Franz Schubert on a children’s radio program.
In an interview with Greek publication Lifo in June, Marinella recounted her early start in music, highlighting her natural talent and dedication to her craft.
Fans and fellow musicians are sending well-wishes to Marinella, praying for her swift recovery and return to the stage. This incident has shocked the Greek music community, emphasizing the fragility of life and the importance of appreciating legendary artists like Marinella.
