A rare musical moment unfolded on French television when world-renowned Nana Mouskouri and popular host-artist Nikos Aliagas took the stage together to perform one of Greece’s most iconic songs, “Chartino to Feggaraki” (Paper Moon), with lyrics by Nikos Gatsos and music by Manos Hadjidakis.
The sight of the two artists side by side—two “Greek kids,” as a visibly moved Aliagas put it—sparked a wave of pride and nostalgia. The duet aired on Greece’s public broadcaster ERT through the show Studio 4, which presented the highlight from their appearance in France.
Mouskouri, with her unmistakable voice and the international aura she has carried for decades, joined Aliagas—an emblematic Greek figure in French media—for a rendition that resonated deeply with viewers.
A behind-the-scenes video added an intimate layer to the moment. Aliagas spoke of Mouskouri with unusual candor for television, saying, “She is my friend, my mother, and my sister,” clearly fighting emotion. Mouskouri, serene as ever, responded gently that he could easily be her son.
With characteristic humor, Aliagas added, “I’m very moved, truly… because we’re two little Greeks. You’ve lived a little longer than us,” a remark that drew a warm smile from Mouskouri and filled the studio with affection, respect, and a strong sense of shared Greek identity.
“Chartino to Feggaraki” remains a cornerstone of Greek cultural heritage. Hearing it performed by two figures who have honored Greece on the international stage renewed the public’s connection to its musical roots and reaffirmed the universal reach of Greek song.
Their meeting on French television was more than a performance—it was a symbolic reminder of the enduring power of Greek culture across the world.
