Carl Marino Wikipedia, Biography, Age, Net Worth, Movies, TV Shows, Wife, Children

admin July 23, 2025

Carl Marino is an American actor, model, and former law enforcement officer, best known for portraying Detective Lieutenant Joe Kenda in the Investigation Discovery series Homicide Hunter: Lt. Joe Kenda. Born on August 26, 1970, in Hornell, New York, Marino embarked on a diverse career path that combined public service and entertainment.

In the late 2000s, after the passing of his parents, Marino moved to California to be closer to family. There, he signed with a modeling agency and soon began auditioning for acting roles. His film debut came in 2010 with the independent film Sedona’s Rule. He also appeared in the NBC series Trauma and had roles in films like My Name Is Khan and Anjaana Anjaani.

Marino’s most prominent role was as Lt. Joe Kenda in Homicide Hunter: Lt. Joe Kenda, where he reenacted real-life homicide investigations. The series aired for nine seasons from 2011 to 2020, earning Marino recognition for his portrayal of the retired Colorado Springs detective.

Beyond Homicide Hunter, Marino has appeared in various films and television shows, often portraying law enforcement officers. His credits include Contagion, The Internship, Absolution, and I (Almost) Got Away With It .

Early Life and Family

Carl Marino was born to Carl and Carol Marino and grew up in Hornell, New York, alongside his three sisters. Raised in a family that valued service and discipline, Marino developed an early interest in law enforcement and justice. His upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of duty and a desire to make a positive impact on his community.

Education and Military Background

After graduating from Hornell High School, Marino attended the United States Military Academy at West Point for two years. Seeking a broader understanding of criminal justice, he transferred to the Rochester Institute of Technology, where he earned a degree in criminal justice. This academic foundation laid the groundwork for his future career in law enforcement.

Law Enforcement Career

Following his education, Marino embarked on a career in law enforcement, serving as a deputy sheriff in Monroe County, New York, for nearly 17 years. His tenure included various roles, primarily at the Monroe County Jail, where he gained extensive experience in corrections and public safety. Marino’s time in law enforcement provided him with firsthand insight into criminal investigations and the justice system.

Transition to Acting

In the late 2000s, after the passing of his parents, Marino moved to California to be closer to family. There, he signed with a modeling agency and began auditioning for acting roles. His film debut came in 2010 with the independent film Sedona’s Rule. He also appeared in the NBC series Trauma and had roles in films like My Name Is Khan and Anjaana Anjaani.

Breakthrough Role: Homicide Hunter

Other Appearances

Controversy: P.I. Moms

In 2010, Marino was involved in the production of a reality TV series called P.I. Moms, centered around a group of mother private investigators. The show was derailed due to Marino’s actions, which some cast and crew members allege were attempts to sabotage the project. According to the Netflix documentary Trainwreck: P.I. Moms, Marino tipped off targets of an undercover sting operation and later provided authorities with information about the agency’s owner, Chris Butler, leading to Butler’s conviction for drug-related crimes. Marino maintains that his actions were part of an undercover operation to expose illegal activities and denies any wrongdoing.

Personal Life

Marino is married to fellow actor Ilona Marino. The couple has appeared in some movies together, including My Name Is Khan, where she appears as a karaoke bar dancer. Ilona also portrays Investigator Carol Jackson in Homicide Hunter.

Net Worth

As of 2025, Carl Marino’s estimated net worth is approximately $1.5 million. His income primarily stems from his acting roles, particularly his long-running role in Homicide Hunter, as well as his work in film and television.

Current Life

As of now, Carl Marino resides in Knoxville, Tennessee, and continues to be active in the entertainment industry. He maintains a presence on social media platforms like Instagram and X (formerly Twitter), where he shares updates about his career and personal life.

Conclusion

Carl Marino’s journey from a deputy sheriff to a television star is a remarkable tale of versatility and dedication. His diverse career, spanning law enforcement and acting, showcases his commitment to his craft and his ability to adapt to different roles. Whether portraying real-life detectives or fictional characters, Marino’s performances resonate with audiences, making him a respected figure in the entertainment industry.

FAQs

What is Carl Marino’s most famous role?

Carl Marino is best known for his portrayal of Detective Lieutenant Joe Kenda in the Investigation Discovery series Homicide Hunter: Lt. Joe Kenda.

Where was Carl Marino born?

Carl Marino was born in Hornell, New York.

What was Carl Marino’s profession before acting?

Before pursuing acting, Carl Marino served as a deputy sheriff in Monroe County, New York, for nearly 17 years.

Who is Carl Marino married to?

Carl Marino is married to fellow actor Ilona Marino.

What is Carl Marino’s estimated net worth?

As of 2025, Carl Marino’s estimated net worth is approximately $1.5 million.

Has Carl Marino appeared in Bollywood films?

Yes, Carl Marino has appeared in Bollywood films such as My Name Is Khan and Anjaana Anjaani.

What controversy is Carl Marino associated with?

Carl Marino was involved in the production of a reality TV series called P.I. Moms, which was derailed due to his actions, including tipping off targets of an undercover sting operation.

Where does Carl Marino currently live?

Carl Marino currently resides in Knoxville, Tennessee.

What other TV shows has Carl Marino appeared in?

Carl Marino has appeared in various TV shows, including Trauma, I (Almost) Got Away With It, and Rizzoli & Isles.

What is Carl Marino’s educational background?

Carl Marino attended the United States Military Academy at West Point for two years and later earned a degree in criminal justice from the Rochester Institute of Technology.