The original cast and crew of the beloved sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond” gathered to celebrate its 30th anniversary in a special CBS event, recalling cherished memories, recreating iconic sets, and paying tribute to late stars Peter Boyle and Doris Roberts. The reunion, titled “Everybody Loves Raymond: 30th Anniversary Reunion,” aired as a 90-minute special and provided a nostalgic trip back to the Barone family’s suburban life.
Ray Romano, who played sportswriter Ray Barone, and the show’s creator, Phil Rosenthal, shared insights about the reunion, which they described as unscripted and genuine. They emphasized the show’s legacy of resonating with audiences through its relatable themes and well-crafted humor. “These reunions are usually scripted within an inch of their life, but we winged it,” Rosenthal noted, expressing how this authenticity contributed to the emotional atmosphere of the event.
The reunion featured not only the original cast—Romano, Patricia Heaton (Debra), Brad Garrett (Robert), and Monica Horan (Amy)—but also a studio audience filled with former guest stars and crew members. Together, they reminisced about their time on the show and even recreated the familiar living room and kitchen sets from the Barones’ home. Romano humorously mentioned that the original couch was transported from his theater back to the set for the occasion, highlighting the intimate connection the cast has with their on-screen family.
As part of the tribute segment, they honored their late co-stars Peter Boyle, who portrayed Ray’s father Frank, and Doris Roberts, mother Marie. Romano shared an emotional moment reflecting on Boyle’s generous nature as they honored him on what would have been his 90th birthday. “We talk about them, and everyone shares memories that they have,” Romano said, emphasizing the love felt for both actors.
Romano and Rosenthal’s discussion touched on the dynamics of family sitcoms and their enduring place on television. Rosenthal pointed out that while networks often shy away from family-centric shows in favor of more “hip” programs, the popularity of reruns and timeless appeal of “Everybody Loves Raymond” highlight a longing for genuine family narratives. Romano added that the show garners affection globally, showcasing how universal family themes transcend cultural differences.
The reunion served not only as an opportunity to reflect on the past but also to celebrate a show that continues to connect with fans across generations. “Everybody Loves Raymond: 30th Anniversary Reunion” aired on November 24, offering viewers a heartfelt reminder of why they fell in love with the Barone family in the first place. The authenticity and camaraderie displayed during the reunion reaffirm that, indeed, everybody still loves Raymond.