Joe Marinelli Dies: General Hospital Alum Was 68

Joe Marinelli, who played Sorel on General Hospital, died at the age of 68 this past weekend.

Leigh J. McCloskey, who played Dr. Zach Kelton / Ethan Asher on Santa Barbara and Damian Smith on GH, paid tribute to him on Facebook:

A sweeter man or a dearer friend you could not find than Joe Marinelli. I knew Joe was sick and so admired his indefatigable spirit throughout what sounded like a very difficult, if not impossible, ordeal. Joe was a champion. He was a great acting partner, teacher, philosophical friend, passionate believer in people, and a storyteller extraordinaire that with laughter and depth revealed the human spirit so beautifully and in so many different ways..

He has a beautiful, incredibly talented family that reflects his love of music and art and with his amazing wife Jean, together they always radiated generous and noble hearts. It saddens me greatly to say goodbye to my old friend and his belief in the goodness, and even the possible greatness of the human adventure. I’m glad I walked this earth with you Joe.

Godspeed old friend, may your spirit soar beyond the stars and reacquaint you with the greater wonder from which you came. You shared your de-light with us, and now return home. We’ll see you on the other side of forever, in Light and with your Legacy in our hearts. My profound condolences to Jean, Vincent and David. Love, Leigh, Carla, Caytlyn and Brighton + Olandar
[*Photo: 2015]

A Martinez, Leigh & Joe together We were old acting chums, having had a great time together on Santa Barbara. He played “Bunny,” a crossdressing gangster, very funny stuff. He was great. What a delight it was! What an even greater delight you were JOE, THANK YOU, Bless you! ❤🤩😁

Joe Marinelli is an American actor. Born of Italian parents, he was raised in Meriden, Connecticut, and moved to Southern California in 1961. His acting career spanned decades and include his roles such as Sorel on GH, Bunny Tagliatti on Santa Barbara, Carmine on One Life to Live and Pauly on Guiding Light.

Soap Opera News takes this time to extend our condolences to the family and friends of Joe Marinelli during this very difficult time. (Photo: Facebook.)

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