Joe Marinelli, General Hospital and Guiding Light Soap Star, Dies at 68

Veteran Actor Joe Marinelli Dies at 68 After Cancer Battle

Joe Marinelli, a beloved character actor known for roles in General Hospital, Santa Barbara, and The Morning Show, passed away at 68 in Burbank, California, following a battle with stomach cancer. His wife, Jean Marinelli, confirmed his death to The Hollywood Reporter, sharing that the couple “never had a fight” in their 34-year marriage.

[Image: Joe Marinelli at the 2022 SAG Awards]
Caption: Marinelli at the 28th Screen Actors Guild Awards in Santa Monica, California, in 2022.

A Legacy of Memorable Roles
Marinelli’s career spanned decades, highlighted by his portrayal of cross-dressing mob boss Bunny Tagliatti on Santa Barbara (1988–1990) and Joseph Sorel on General Hospital (1999–2001). Most recently, he starred as director Donny Spagnoli in The Morning Show alongside Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon, earning a 2022 SAG Award for Outstanding Ensemble in a Drama Series.

[Image: Marinelli on The Morning Show set]
Caption: Marinelli as Donny Spagnoli in Apple+’s The Morning Show.

Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
Close friend Leigh J. McCloskey remembered Marinelli as “a champion” and “storyteller extraordinaire,” praising his humor, depth, and dedication to uplifting others. “He revealed the human spirit beautifully,” McCloskey wrote on Instagram, adding, “We’ll see you on the other side of forever.”

[Image: Marinelli in the 1980s]
Caption: Marinelli during his early career in the 1980s.

A Prolific Career
Marinelli’s TV credits included iconic series like L.A. Law, Hill Street Blues, ER, The West Wing, and House. In recent years, he appeared in Reboot, The Offer, and Ryan Murphy’s Hollywood. His versatility made him a staple in both drama and comedy.

Family and Personal Life
Marinelli is survived by Jean, his wife of nearly 34 years, and their sons, Vincent and David. McCloskey noted the actor’s “generous and noble heart,” emphasizing how his love for art and music resonated within his family.

[Image: Marinelli with his SAG Award]
Caption: Marinelli celebrating his 2022 SAG Award win with the Morning Show cast.

Fans and peers alike mourn the loss of a talent whose warmth and passion left an indelible mark on Hollywood. As McCloskey poignantly concluded: “Godspeed, old friend. May your spirit soar beyond the stars.”

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