‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ Celebrated In 30th Anniversary Special

Everybody Loves Raymond, the beloved sitcom that aired from 1996 to 2005, is returning to CBS in a special one-hour reunion event on November 24. From a reimagined Barone living room, cast members Ray Romano (Ray), Patricia Heaton (Debra), Brad Garrett (Robert), Monica Horan (Amy), Madylin Sweeten (Ally), Sullivan Sweeten (Michael), and series creator Phil Rosenthal will reminisce about their favorite episodes, behind-the-scenes moments, and the enduring legacy of the multi-Emmy Award–winning comedy.

The special will also feature a tribute to Doris Roberts (Marie) and Peter Boyle (Frank), whose unforgettable portrayals made them fan favorites and the emotional anchors of the series.

Here are some fun factoids to get you ready:

1. The show’s title came from a sarcastic comment made by Romano’s real-life police officer brother, Richard: “I had a day where people were shooting at me, and you’re bringing home trophies. Everybody loves Raymond, don’t they?”

2. Robert’s quirky habit of touching food to his chin was inspired by a real mannerism of Ray Romano’s brother.

3. Many arguments between real-life couple Phil Rosenthal and Monica Horan made their way into the scripts.

4. Doris Roberts almost didn’t audition because she was busy directing a play — but her agents insisted she make time.

5. Peter Boyle arrived at his audition agitated and sarcastic after getting lost and struggling to find parking — which immediately convinced the creators he was perfect for Frank.

6. Initially airing Fridays at 8:30 p.m. ET after Dave’s World with Harry Anderson, Everybody Loves Raymond struggled in season one (finishing No. 84 overall). CBS wisely moved it to Monday, and by season three, the show had reached the Top 10.

7. The classic line where Marie refers to herself as a “trophy wife” (and Frank replies, “What contest in hell did I win?”) was not in the original script. It was a last-minute addition according to Phil Rosenthal.

8. By the final two seasons, Ray Romano became the highest-paid actor on television, earning a reported $1.7 to $1.8 million per episode — not including his current syndication earnings.

Based on this hefty payday, everybody apparently did “love Raymond.”

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/marcberman1/2025/11/19/everybody-loves-raymond-celebrated-in-30th-anniversary-special/