Akis Petretzikis, the popular Greek chef and television personality, took to the stage during his recent appearance on the show Happy Day, addressing the buzz surrounding comments made by fellow chef Eleni Psychouli. This dialogue unfolded after Psychouli publicly critiqued his long-running cooking show, which she claimed had remained unchanged for seven years.
During the interview aired on December 14, 2023, hosted by Stamatina Tsimtsili, Petretzikis was asked about the comments from Psychouli, who originally made her remarks back in October, stirring conversations about his show's evolution and professional standing.
Psychouli, noted for her candor, expressed her feelings about the repetitiveness of culinary shows, stating, "Η εκπομπή του Άκη Πετρετζίκης είναι ίδια εδώ και 7 χρόνια, δεν μπορώ άλλο" (Translation: "Akis Petretzikis's show has been the same for seven years, I can't take it anymore."). She later emphasized her respect for Petretzikis by clarifying her earlier statements and asserting he is her favorite television chef.
Petretzikis, meanwhile, reiterated his avoidance of discussing other professionals, whether positively or negatively. He elaborated on this philosophy by stating, "Γενικά δεν είμαι υπέρ αυτής της άποψης, χρόνια το τηρώ. Δεν μου αρέσει να μιλάω για άλλους είτε καλά είτε κακά, οπότε δεν θέλω να πω τίποτα για αυτό το θέμα..." (Translation: "Generally, I do not support this view; I have been following this for years. I do not like to talk about others, whether good or bad, so I do not want to say anything about this topic..."). His approach reflects years of learning from his own past experiences where naming individuals publicly led to unnecessary tension.
The audience's reaction to this exchange has showcased the high regard both chefs possess among their fans, as the culinary community remains supportive. Petretzikis’s adherence to his principle of not engaging through media discussions stands as notable, particularly as these platforms often exaggerate or misinterpret casual comments for sensationalism.
Interestingly, Psychouli also clarified how their connection remains strong, asserting, "Φυσικά. Ευτυχώς ο Άκης ξέρει πόσο τον εκτιμώ και δεν παρεξηγήθηκε. Του έστειλα ένα μήνυμα τυπικά" (Translation: "Of course. Fortunately, Akis knows how much I appreciate him and was not offended. I sent him a message formally."). This comment underlines the camaraderie between the two amid public scrutiny, emphasizing mutual respect within the culinary field.
Petretzikis's reluctance to respond directly to critics reflects his desire to maintain professional integrity and focus on what truly matters—his craft and the family he cherishes. "Δεν μπορώ να φανταστώ ότι θα πάω διακοπές χωρίς τα παιδιά" (Translation: "I cannot picture going on vacation without my children"), he has been quoted, linking personal joy to familial commitments.
Overall, this episode reflects not only the dynamics of the culinary world but also the power of media narratives. Petretzikis and Psychouli serve as examples of how to navigate public life with grace. Their exchanges, which could spiral out of control, instead affirm the importance of direct communication over sensationalism. The culinary community benefits greatly when its prominent figures maintain positive, respectful relationships.
Whether discussing cooking or personal growth within their careers, it’s clear this duo cherishes their influence and aims to uplift rather than criticize. Akis Petretzikis remains committed to his principles and family, standing firm amid external discussions. At the end of the day, it’s mutual respect and direct communication, as these chefs demonstrate, which truly matters.
