Australian actor Alexander “Lex” Marinos has died at 75 following a 20-year battle with cancer.
Marinos is best remembered for his role as Bruno Bertolucci on Channel 7’s hit sitcom Kingswood Country, which aired from 1980 to 1984.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Lex Marinos on Kingswood Country.
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He also starred in the 2011 ABC miniseries The Slap, based on the bestselling novel.
His family confirmed the news of his death in a brief statement to social media.
“It is with heavy hearts we let you know that Lex passed away peacefully on Friday morning,” the statement read.
“He died at home, surrounded by family and the sounds of Bob Dylan, with so much love in the room.”
Born in Wagga Wagga, New South Wales and of Greek heritage, Marinos enjoyed a distinguished fifty-year career as an actor, writer, and TV director.
His portrayal of the Italian son-in-law Bruno Bertolucci opposite Ross Higgins’ conservative Ted Bullpitt created many memorable moments on Kingwood Country and he quickly became a fan favourite.
Marinos was diagnosed with leukemia in 2005 and managed the disease for 20 years.
Despite his health challenges, he continued to work, with his final role appearing in a 2023 episode of NCIS: Sydney, alongside Olivia Swann and Todd Lasance.
A passionate advocate for diversity in Australian television, Marinos took pride in breaking away from stereotypical roles.
He once reflected on his role in Kingswood Country, telling Greek-Australian newspaper Neos Kosmos in 2021: “It’s very gratifying … it did provide a focal point for kids who were ‘other’.”
His portrayal of a non-Anglo character at a time when Australian TV was predominantly filled with white characters was groundbreaking.
Throughout his career, Marinos worked alongside many renowned actors, including Melissa George, Richard Roxburgh, and Jonathan LaPaglia.
He also had a radio stint on Triple J precursor 2JJ and 2JJJJ in the late 1970s with director Ted Robinson and went on to host Late Night Legends on ABC2.
His contributions to the performing arts were recognised in 1994 when he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal.
Marinos was also part of the creative team for the 2000 Sydney Olympics Opening Ceremony.
To celebrate his remarkable legacy, the Museum of the Riverina in Wagga Wagga will hold an exhibition titled The Lex Factor: From Wagga to the World Stage later this year.
Marinos is survived by his wife Anne and their children.