From that point on, Joe was in at least two plays every year, but did not want to commit to choosing it as a profession because he didn't want the uncertain lifestyle of an actor.
The ten years following college were filled with constant theater performances in Los Angeles, with little or no pay, and occasional co-starring roles, but mostly making his living as a carpenter.
His first break was a Guest Starring role on LA Law, where he was seen by Jill Farren Phelps, Executive Producer of Santa Barbara.
Marinelli has had guest-starring roles on various syndicated night-time series, including NYPD Blue, Lethal Weapon, Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Desperate Housewives, Numb3rs, and Victorious.
He lives in Los Angeles with his wife, French hornist Jean Marinelli, and sons Vincent, a film editor and David, a music producer.