Greek actor Apostolis Totsikas discussed his personal approach to parenting and his philosophy on the acting profession during an appearance on the television show Chamogela Kai Pali on Wednesday, October 7.
Speaking on the morning program, Totsikas revealed that fellow actors frequently tell him they wish he were their father because of the positive and joyful environment he maintains at home for his son and daughter.
Parenting style and household atmosphere
Totsikas acknowledged that while he can occasionally be a strict parent, he prioritizes maintaining a warm and cheerful household. He explained that he aims to fill his home with light and laughter rather than fostering an atmosphere of tension or unnecessary severity.
The actor emphasized that he rejects the notion that life requires constant hardship or solemnity. He stated that avoiding negative energy and suffering requires ongoing effort, describing parenting as a continuous work in progress.
Addressing his children's future, Totsikas noted that both his son and daughter possess strong artistic inclinations. However, he stated that his primary concern is that they find genuine happiness and satisfaction in whatever career path they choose to pursue.
He observed that in modern society, a person's profession dictates many aspects of daily life, making job satisfaction essential for overall well-being.
Future careers and demystifying acting
Totsikas explained that he has taken steps to demystify his work for his children from an early age, ensuring they view acting simply as a job. He advised them to avoid getting distracted by external pressures and instead focus entirely on doing what they love.
He noted that his children view his profession with a relaxed attitude, comparing their perspective to his own childhood experience growing up as the son of an actor. He recalled that seeing figures from theatre and classic Greek cinema in his family home made the performing arts feel like a normal, everyday part of life.
Regarding whether his children might follow him into the drama industry, Totsikas stated he would fully support their choice to become actors. He added that his only condition is that they pursue acting out of an internal drive rather than merely copying their father.
Totsikas is a prominent figure in Greek television, film, and theatre, having built a career spanning more than two decades. His father, the late Yiannis Totsikas, was also a respected actor in Greek cinema and stage productions, exposing the younger Totsikas to the industry from childhood.
Role of acting and artistic vision
Reflecting on his early career, Totsikas shared that he demystified the acting industry early in life and never focused on his physical appearance or image. He stated that his goal from a young age was simply to perform and collaborate on meaningful projects.
He concluded by explaining his view of public life and performance. While acknowledging that working in front of cameras involves a certain level of public play, he stated that his focus remains strictly on his work, asserting that personal matters are not the public's concern and that an actor's true purpose is to provoke thought and move audiences internally.
