Doris Roberts

Doris Roberts, a widely revered figure in the American entertainment industry, was more than just an actor; she was a paragon of comedic prowess and dramatic versatility. She is perhaps best remembered for her iconic role as Marie Barone on the long-running sitcom "Everybody Loves Raymond,” but her career spanned over six decades and was marked by diverse roles that showcased her remarkable range and unique flair. Born Doris May Green on November 4, 1925, in St. Louis, Missouri, Roberts was raised in the Bronx, New York, by her mother, Ann Meltzer, following the departure of her father when she was just ten years old. Her burgeoning interest in the performing arts developed through tough times and was nurtured by her mother’s unwavering belief in her talents. She would often talk about the influence of her Russian immigrant grandparents on her life, attributing her work ethic to their perseverance. Roberts began her foray into acting through the theater. In the early 1950s, she debuted on Broadway in "The Time of Your Life," followed by roles in productions such as "The Desk Set" and "Last of the Red Hot Lovers." These experiences honed her skills and imbued her performances with a depth that would become her hallmark. Her early stage work laid the foundation for her transition to television and film. Throughout the 1960s, Doris Roberts made several appearances on television, becoming a familiar, albeit not yet famous, face. She graced numerous series with her presence, from "Naked City" and "Ben Casey" to "The Defenders" and "The Doctors and the Nurses." Her adeptness at portraying diverse characters with nuanced humanity established her as a reliable character actor, one broadcasters and viewers could rely upon for authentic performances. The small screen soon became her primary canvas. During the 1970s and 1980s, Roberts’s ascent in Hollywood was symbolized by recurring roles on popular television series, including a memorable portrayal as Mildred Krebs on "Remington Steele," which she joined in its sophomore season in 1983. Here, Roberts brought humor and heart, qualities that would come to define many of her future roles. In addition to television, Roberts also carved out a respectable film career, appearing in movies like "The Honeymoon Killers" (1969), "A New Leaf" (1971), and "The Taking of Pelham One Two Three" (1974). Despite the formidable detours cinema offered, it was her television roles that continually thrust her into the spotlight. In 1996, Doris Roberts’s life would change forever with the role that catapulted her to stardom: Marie Barone in "Everybody Loves Raymond." Here, she brought to life a character that was both comedic gold and an exploration of the intricacies of family dynamics. As the meddlesome, overbearing, yet deeply loving matriarch, Roberts delivered a performance that resonated with audiences nationwide. Her work on the show earned her four Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series, solidifying her place as one of TV's most beloved mothers. Roberts’s chemistry with her on-screen family, particularly her witty repartee with Ray Romano and Patricia Heaton, made Marie a timeless character, one who navigated familial chaos with equal parts authoritarian stridency and heartwarming love. Though “Everybody Loves Raymond” ended in 2005, Roberts remained a fixture in the industry. She continued to act, taking guest roles in various TV shows including "Grey’s Anatomy," "Desperate Housewives," and "The Middle," where she reunited with Patricia Heaton. Her enduring appeal and ability to connect with audiences across generations was a testament to her instinct for channeling empathy through humor. Off-screen, Doris Roberts was a devoted advocate for animal rights and an active supporter of the fight against age discrimination in Hollywood. She was a testament that talent knows no age limits, continually redefining what it meant to be an actor in later years. Known for her warmth, resilience, and tenacity, Roberts was also highly regarded for her work ethic and consummate professionalism. Roberts's personal life was as rich as her career. She was married twice, first to Michael Cannata, with whom she had a son, Michael Cannata Jr., before their divorce. She later married novelist William Goyen, who passed away in 1983. Despite the challenges she faced, both in her personal life and within the broader entertainment industry, she remained committed to her craft until her passing. Doris Roberts died on April 17, 2016, in Los Angeles, California, at the age of 90. The echo of her laughter, the kindness of her smile, and the sincerity of her performances left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of witnessing her work. In a career defined by its unexpected turns and glowing successes, Doris Roberts forever changed the landscape of television, proving that you could be hilarious and heartfelt, acerbic yet affectionate—a true testament to her multifaceted genius. Her legacy lives on in the timeless characters she crafted and the countless lives she touched along the way.