Joe Marinelli, the beloved American actor known for his roles in numerous soap operas and television dramas, passed away on June 22, 2025, in Burbank, California, at the age of 68. He had been battling stomach cancer, with additional struggles related to throat cancer in recent years.
Born on January 21, 1957, in Meriden, Connecticut, Marinelli built a respected career across television and film. He was best known for playing Bunny Tagliatti in Santa Barbara (1988–1990), appearing in nearly 170 episodes, and Joseph Sorel in General Hospital (1999–2001).
His TV résumé also included memorable roles in Guiding Light, L.A. Law, Hill Street Blues, ER, The West Wing, Desperate Housewives, House, Hollywood, The Offer, and more. On the big screen, he featured in acclaimed films like Sideways and The Assassination of Richard Nixon.
More recently, Marinelli portrayed director Donny Spagnoli on The Morning Show (Apple TV+, 2019–2023), earning a SAG Award ensemble nomination in 2022.
He is survived by his wife of nearly 34 years, Jean Marinelli, and their two sons, Vincent and David. Tributes poured in from colleagues and fans alike. Actor Leigh J. McCloskey hailed him as “a champion… a storyteller extraordinaire,” while Mark Duplass remembered him as a “beautiful human, wide-eyed positivist.”
Joe Marinelli leaves behind a legacy of thoughtful performances, industry respect, and warmth that touched many both on and off screen.
