Rex Van de Kamp is a fictional character on the ABC television series Desperate Housewives. The character is played by actor Steven Culp, and is the first and late husband of one of the series' protagonists, Bree Van de Kamp (portrayed by Marcia Cross). Culp was part of the main cast only during the first season due to Rex' death in the season 1 season finale, but made numerous guest appearances for the rest of the series.