Greek actor Rafael Kariotakis talks about ‘A Greek Recipe for Romance’ movie

By: Markos Papadatos, Senior Editor

Greek actor Rafael Kariotakis chatted with HNA’s Markos Papadatos about starring in the new Hallmark film “A Greek Recipe for Romance.”

Kariotakis stars in this rom-com alongside Danielle C. Ryan as his female love interest Abby.

The synopsis is: After losing her job at a New York city hotel, a young woman Abby heads to Greece to figure out what is next, but what she didn’t plan on was romance on the menu.

“My experience filming ‘A Greek Recipe for Romance’ with Hallmark was truly wonderful,” he exclaimed. “It was my first movie with Hallmark, and I couldn’t have asked for a better introduction to working with such a fantastic team.”
“I simply loved everything about it… from the heartwarming storyline to the incredible cast and crew. It was a truly unforgettable experience that I will always cherish,” he acknowledged.

On portraying the character Theo, he remarked, “I absolutely loved playing Theo. His decision to follow his heart and revive his mom’s restaurant, even if it meant potentially losing his dad’s fortune, was so inspiring.”
“The way he prioritized his dreams really resonated with me. It was a joy to bring such a passionate and determined character to life on screen,” he exclaimed.

On working with Danielle C. Ryan, Kariotakis said, “Working with Dani was an absolute thrill! She is an incredible actress, and I felt truly honored to share the screen with her.”

“Not only that, but collaborating with the entire team, including the talented director Colin Theys and the dedicated production crew, made the experience even more memorable,” he elaborated.

“It was a fantastic journey working alongside such passionate and skilled individuals who brought their A-game every day,” he added.

Kariotakis opened up about filming this movie in his native Greece. “It was a remarkable experience,” he admitted.

“Despite being Greek and living in this beautiful country, the production managed to showcase the captivating beauty of Greece in an exceptional way,” he noted.

“The film highlighted the picturesque landscapes, rich culture, and vibrant atmosphere of Greece, adding a special touch to the storytelling that resonated with both local and international audiences,” he added.

Regarding his daily motivations as an actor, he said, “My motivation stems from the drive to improve and grow in my craft. I am constantly striving to better my skills, learn new techniques, and explore different aspects of acting.”

“The passion I have for my job fuels me, making each day feel like a rewarding journey rather than just ‘going to work.’ The joy and fulfillment I find in acting inspire me to push boundaries, take on new challenges, and evolve as an artist continuously,” he explained.

For young and aspiring actors, he said, “My advice is to embrace the challenges that come with pursuing a career in acting. While it may seem like a tough industry to break into, every moment spent honing your skills and chasing your dreams is incredibly valuable.”

“Remember that the journey may have its ups and downs, but the rewards of following your passion for acting are immeasurable. Stay dedicated, keep pushing forward, and never give up on your dreams, no matter how challenging the path may seem. The fulfillment and joy you find in acting will make every effort worthwhile,” he said.

On his definition of the word success, Kariotakis said, “Success, to me, is more than just financial gains. It’s about waking up every morning with a sense of joy and purpose, looking forward to the day ahead because I truly love what I do.”

“When work doesn’t feel like work, but a fulfilling passion, that’s when I know I’ve achieved success. And hey, if it also happens to bring in some extra cash, well, I definitely won’t complain,” he elaborated.

“Additionally, making a movie in the U.S. would be a dream come true for me and a significant milestone of success in my career,” he added.

Kariotakis remarked about “A Greek Recipe for Romance,” “It is a delightful movie that combines romance, stunning Greek scenery, delicious food, and a heartwarming story.”

“It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys love stories and the beauty of Greece. So grab some popcorn and get ready to be swept off your feet by this charming film,” he exclaimed.

For more information on Greek actor Rafael Kariotakis, follow him on Instagram.

Photo Courtesy of Johnson Production Group