Everybody Loves Raymond, the long-running CBS sitcom about a dysfunctional Italian-American family, has plenty of fans. The crude jokes and realistic Long Island family dynamic resonated with millions of viewers week after week for nearly a decade. But a lot has changed since its 1996 premiere, and looking back at some of the less than politically correct jokes is a crash course in cringe.
10
The Bullying Kid
Spencer pointing a toy gun at Ray. Image via CBS
We’ve all known that kid. The one who doesn’t play by the rules pushes things to the limit, and whose parents brush it off – that’s Spencer (Brett Buford). Bullying is unacceptable, and what may have been seemingly funny in the ’90s isn’t so much today.
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The son of acquaintances Lauren (Cheryl Hines) and Neil Williamson (Craig Anton) wreaks havoc on the Barone household and reminds viewers that discipline should be an actual thing. Spencer’s antics and disrespect aren’t acceptable or funny in today’s world.
9
Ray’s Misogyny Doesn’t Hold Up
Debra and Ray in the living room. Image via CBS
Ray’s seemingly affable husband shtick wears thin during the series. When Ray takes it upon himself to manage Debra’s (Patricia Heaton) mood swings by offering her medication, it doesn’t go well.
8
Ray’s Wandering Eye
Ray in the bosom of a waitress on Everybody Loves Raymond. Image via CBS
Adultery is nothing to laugh at, even if it’s just hinted at. Ray’s wandering eye is a running theme on the show, but it falls flat. With Debra at home with the kids, he takes the married man, tempted too much, to another level. When Robert loses Ray’s wedding ring, it highlights the misogyny that wouldn’t be accepted in today’s times.
7
Awkward Sex Jokes
Ray and Debra on the bed. Image via CBS
The lack of sexual chemistry between Ray and Debra couldn’t be more obvious in the episode “No Roll.” Ray’s inability to self-reflect and realize that it’s not about a game, but him is an eye-opener for the self-absorbed husband.
6
Sore Loser
Frank, Robert, Marie and Ray around a ping pong table.Image via CBS
In a tit-for-tat episode, the dynamic of the Barone men is on full display. Frank’s previous duplicity comes back full circle when Ray finds out that his father let him win in their games. This sends Ray on a mission to teach his father a lesson, but not in a good way.
5
Frank’s Selfishness
Frank holding football on Everybody Loves Raymond. Image via CBS
Frank isn’t the nicest guy, and that’s evident when he holds a football hostage. Ransoming the pigskin for $10,000 rather than turning it over to the rightful owner. The Barone patriarch is not only a bigot, but he’s greedy and stingy. The glee he displays at being a jerk is on full display.
4
Sexism and Objectification
Debra and Marie on Everybody Loves Raymond.Image via CBS
Misogynistic jokes are no longer cool — if they ever were. The episode when Debra gets a breast enhancement highlights the uncomfortable conversation regarding a woman’s self-worth and the decisions made to do what makes her feel good.
