Renowned Greek-Cypriot singer Michalis Hatzigiannis has responded to a wave of negative comments targeting his recent performance in Cyprus, where social media users criticised his voice and physical appearance.
The backlash, sparked by a viral TikTok video from a live show, has prompted the artist to speak out against what he calls unfair and baseless attacks.
The video, capturing Hatzigiannis on stage, drew harsh remarks on platforms like TikTok, with users commenting on his weight and vocal performance. One user wrote, “He’s gained weight and lost his voice… It’s like a curse.” Another remarked, “He used to be my idol, but now he’s the one copying me.” Some even referenced his personal life, with one comment stating, “He lost Zeta and fell apart.”
In an interview on ANT1’s To Proino, Hatzigiannis addressed the criticism with composure. “Freedom of expression is one thing, but anonymity is often used as a shield to spread falsehoods,” he said. Explaining the context of the performance, he revealed he had been battling influenza B, which forced him to cancel a show that was later rescheduled. “Some seized the opportunity to write what they did, creating a fuss over nothing,” he added.
Reflecting on his nearly 30-year career, the 46-year-old singer emphasised his resilience. “At this stage, I don’t get upset because I understand the motives behind these comments,” he said, dismissing the negativity as misguided.
The controversy has sparked broader discussions online, with some comparing Hatzigiannis to artists like Haris Alexiou, who retired at the peak of her career. Despite the criticism, Hatzigiannis remains focused on his music, undeterred by the social media storm.
