Maro Kontou has died
Greek actress Maro Kontou, who starred in 61 films and 90 theatrical productions over six decades, has died at age 92, leaving a lasting mark on Greek theater, cinema and television.
Greek culture is poorer today. Maro Kontou has passed away, one of the most distinctive and beloved figures of theater, cinema and television. The news of her death, at the age of 92, was announced today.
Marianthi Kontou, as her real name was, was born on June 21, 1934 in Koukaki, Athens and had origins from Psara. Her career in the arts spanned over six decades and left a strong mark.
A brilliant career in theater and cinema
Maro Kontou began her professional career in 1954 as a member of the ancient tragedy chorus at the National Theatre, where she remained until 1958. Three years later, in 1959, she made her first theatrical appearance alongside Dimitris Horn in the play “Romancero” by Jacques Deval.
She went on to star in 61 films and participated in approximately 90 theatrical productions. With her talent, elegance and strong stage presence, she collaborated with the leading creators of her era and established herself as one of the most recognizable leading ladies of Greek cinema.
Television appearances
Her success continued on the small screen. She participated in popular series such as “Louna Park”, “Enochoi”, “Megali Parelasi”, “Egklima sto Psychiko”, “Oikogeneia Kazino” and “Kai oi tesseris itan yperoches”. In recent years she won over younger audiences with her role in the series “I Gi tis Elias”. In 1990 she also presented the show “Choris parexigisi” on ET2.
Studies and other activities
Beyond acting, Maro Kontou had studied dance and had received a scholarship for studies in Germany. She was a graduate of the Department of Byzantine and Modern Greek Studies at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens.
She also engaged in painting, holding a solo exhibition in 1993, while her work can be found in the collection of the Vorres Museum.
Political activity
Alongside her artistic career, Kontou was also involved in public affairs. She served as Athens City Councilor from 1994 to 2002 and president of the municipal radio station Athens 9.84.
She was elected twice as Member of Parliament for Athens A’ with New Democracy, while she also served as president of the Infant Center “MITERA”.
In her personal life she had married cinematographer Aristeidis Karydis-Fuchs and later advertiser Giorgos Doxas.
As Newsbomb reports in its publication, the actress had been transferred a few days ago, on June 15, to Attikon Hospital.
Maro Kontou will remain in our memory for her rich artistic work and her multifaceted contribution.
