Are you old enough to remember Everybody Loves Raymond? It was such a hit! The show was known for its Emmy-winning writing, blending humor and real-life family moments inspired by Ray Romano’s comedy. It ran for nine years on CBS, finishing in 2005.
Sadly, since the show ended, many of the supporting cast have tragically passed away and will be dearly missed for years to come.
1. Pierrino Mascarino — Giorgio
Pierrino Mascarino played Giorgio in the “Italy” episodes, bonding with Frank over their wives’ quirks. Despite his Italian portrayal, Mascarino was born in Illinois and has worked in television since the late 1950s. He had notable roles in “Seinfeld” and starred in “Uncle Nino.” Mascarino died on June 2, 2017, at the age of 77.
2. Fred Orenstein — Artie
Fred Ornstein, who turned to acting after a career in construction, appeared in three episodes of “Raymond” as lodge member Artie. Orenstein was also an active member of the civil rights movement and proudly participated in the 1965 march to Washington, D.C. Ornstein had roles in shows like “Scrubs” and “The West Wing.” He died of cancer at age 85 on January 28, 2016.
3. Max Rosenthal — Max
Phil Rosenthal’s father, Max Rosenthal, portrayed Frank’s lodge buddy, Max, in five episodes. Max, a Holocaust survivor and Frank’s inspiration, appeared alongside Ray’s father, Albert Romano. Max also gained fame from Phil’s food shows, offering humorous commentary. Sadly, Rosenthal passed away on June 26, 2021, at 95.
4. Phil Leeds — Uncle Mel
Phil Leeds, often cast as an irritable older man, played Frank’s cranky brother, Uncle Mel, in four episodes of “Raymond.” Known for roles in “Ghost” and “Ally McBeal,” Leeds brought a unique comedic vibe to the show. His slight stature and sharp wit made him a memorable character actor. Leeds passed away on August 16, 1998, at 82.
5. Katherine Helmond — Lois Whelan
Katherine Helmond, celebrated for her roles in “Soap” and “Who’s the Boss?”, portrayed Debra’s mother, Lois Whelan, on “Raymond.” Her character’s polished exterior masked deeper issues, which were explored throughout the series. Helmond’s performance earned her a seventh Emmy nomination in 2002. She continued acting until her death on February 23, 2019, at the age of 89.
6, Sawyer Sweeten — Geoffrey Barone
Sawyer Sweeten played Geoffrey Barone from the age of 18 months alongside his twin brother Sullivan. The Sweeten twins grew up on the set of “Raymond,” with the show being their primary acting role. Despite his brief acting career, Sawyer left a lasting impact on fans. He tragically took his own life on April 23, 2015, at the age of 19.
7. Fred Willard — Hank MacDougall
Fred Willard is best known for his astounding roles in Christopher Guest’s mockumentaries and “Modern Family,” where he played Amy’s conservative dad, Hank MacDougall. His comedic style, blending confidence and cluelessness, earned him three Emmy nominations for “Raymond.” Willard’s portrayal of Hank added a humorous dynamic to the Barone family’s conflicts. He died on May 15, 2020, at 86.
8. Doris Roberts — Marie Barone
Doris Roberts brought humor and heart to the meddling Marie Barone on “Raymond.” Her character’s intrusive yet caring nature shone, particularly in episodes like “Ray’s Journal,” earning her four Emmys out of seven nominations. Roberts’ ability to balance comedy and emotion made her a standout on the show. She passed away at 90 from a stroke on April 17, 2016.
9. Peter Boyle — Frank Barone
Peter Boyle, known for his iconic roles in “Young Frankenstein” and “Taxi Driver,” became a household name as Frank Barone in “Everybody Loves Raymond.” Frank was a perpetually cranky but occasionally soft-hearted dad who delighted viewers with his sharp wit. Boyle earned seven Emmy nominations for his role, winning a shared Screen Actors Guild Award with the cast in 2003 and an Emmy for his work on “The X-Files.” He passed away on November 12, 2006, at 71, from multiple myeloma and heart disease.