MTV's 'Growing Up Greek' Sparks Dueling Petitions

As MTV prepares to debut its new half-hour special on “Growing Up Greek” in Tarpon Springs, the reality show is drawing its share of critics.

The show follows a group of young Greek residents as they go about their daily life. “In this bustling town, everyone is either dating, related or work together at one of the three feuding Greek restaurants,” the show’s website explains.

It’s that focus, however, that is drawing critics, who say there’s much more to Greek life than dancing, drama and breaking plates. Those critics say the special is a “gross misrepresentation of what it means to grow up Greek.”

Opponents of the show have launched a petition on Change.org, requesting that MTV either cancel its show or rewrite it to deliver a truer representation of what Greek life in America is all about.

“What makes us Greek is pride,” the petition explains. “Pride for our faith, family and each other. This show lessens us to look like Jersey Shore.”

As of Sunday morning, the petition had nearly 4,500 signatures.

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Opponents have also launched their own Facebook page. That page had 453 likes as of Sunday morning.

Supporters of the show, however, have launched their own petition via Care2 petitions.

“This is one of the most authentic shows MTV has ever aired,” the petition explains. “A very accurate portrayal of young Greeks in America.”

As of Sunday morning, that petition had garnered just over 100 signatures.

Ioanna Koursiotis, one of the show’s stars, says the drama that unfolds is typical of any ethnicity.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re Greek, Spanish, Chinese or Japanese; there’s always going to be drama whether you like it or not,” Koursiotis was quoted by Bay News 9 as saying.

MTV appears to have no intention of canceling the show. A sneak peek is available via its website.

The debut airs at 11 p.m. Wednesday.

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