When we think about the cast of Everybody Loves Raymond, we picture family dinners, sarcastic banter, and Raymond Barone dodging his parents’ unsolicited advice. But behind the cameras, one of the show’s stars had a surprising friendship that crossed into the world of rock and roll.
In one of the most unexpected celebrity pairings, a rock icon actually served as best man at an Everybody Loves Raymond star’s wedding. It’s the kind of story that sounds too wild to be true—but trust me, it happened.
So, who was this star, which rock legend stood by their side, and how did two people from such different worlds become so close? Let’s break it down.
The Star in Question: Brad Garrett
The cast of Everybody Loves Raymond is stacked with talent, but the one who had a towering presence both on-screen and in real life was Brad Garrett, who played Raymond’s older brother, Robert Barone.
At 6’8” with a booming voice, Garrett’s Robert was both awkward and lovable. But in real life, Garrett wasn’t just a sitcom actor—he was also deeply connected to the entertainment world beyond television.
Brad Garrett’s Unexpected Ties to Rock Music
So, what’s a sitcom actor doing with a rock legend in his wedding party? The truth is, Brad Garrett had long moved in the same Hollywood circles as many musicians.
Before landing his breakout role, Garrett worked as a stand-up comedian in Los Angeles, often opening for big names in the music industry. Comedy clubs and rock venues often blurred lines in the ’80s and ’90s, which is how Garrett struck up friendships with several musicians.
The Rock Icon Revealed: Billy Joel
Yes, you read that right—Billy Joel, the Piano Man himself, played best man at Brad Garrett’s wedding.
The legendary singer-songwriter, known for hits like “Uptown Girl,” “Piano Man,” and “We Didn’t Start the Fire,” wasn’t just a casual acquaintance. He was a close personal friend of Garrett and stood proudly at his side on the big day.
How Brad Garrett and Billy Joel Met
Their friendship blossomed in New York City during the height of both men’s careers. Garrett, a native New Yorker, often referenced his roots in his stand-up comedy, which resonated with Joel’s own working-class New York identity.
The two bonded over their shared sense of humor, love of live performance, and the unique pressures of fame. What started as mutual respect quickly grew into a lasting friendship.
The Wedding Day
When Brad Garrett married Jill Diven, Billy Joel served as his best man. The wedding was an intimate yet star-studded affair, blending Hollywood glitz with heartfelt moments. Guests reportedly were stunned to see Joel, not just performing, but standing in the central role of best man.
Imagine it: Robert Barone’s wedding day with The Piano Man holding the ring. That’s the kind of crossover moment only Hollywood can deliver.
Billy Joel’s Toast
As best man, Joel delivered a speech that blended humor and heart. Sources close to the wedding recalled Joel poking fun at Garrett’s height (“I had to stand on a piano bench just to look him in the eye”) while also honoring the deep friendship they shared.
It wasn’t just celebrity fluff—it was genuine connection.
Why Their Friendship Makes Sense
At first glance, a sitcom star and a rock legend might seem worlds apart. But both Garrett and Joel share traits that made their bond natural:
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New York roots – Both grew up in the New York metro area.
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Love of live performance – Comedy and rock both thrive on energy, timing, and connecting with an audience.
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Grounded personalities – Despite their fame, both have reputations for humility and relatability.
Brad Garrett’s Other Celebrity Connections
While Joel is perhaps the most surprising connection, Garrett has long been surrounded by celebrities. His stand-up career had him crossing paths with Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and other entertainment giants.
Having Billy Joel as a best man was just another reminder of how deeply Garrett was woven into entertainment’s golden circle.
The Public Reaction
When news of Billy Joel’s role as best man spread, fans of Everybody Loves Raymond were stunned. It became one of those “Wait, what?!” trivia facts that people couldn’t stop talking about.
It gave fans a fresh perspective on Brad Garrett—not just as Robert Barone, but as a well-connected entertainer with surprising friendships.
The Legacy of the Moment
The wedding may not have lasted—Garrett and Diven eventually divorced—but the story of Billy Joel as best man has lived on in Hollywood lore.
It’s a perfect example of how sitcom stars often have lives that are just as colorful, surprising, and entertaining as the characters they play on-screen.
Billy Joel’s Role Beyond the Wedding
Billy Joel’s presence wasn’t just symbolic. His role represented the kind of enduring friendships that cross genres and industries. Garrett and Joel’s connection reminds us that fame often blurs boundaries—you never know which comedian is hanging out with which rock legend behind the scenes.
What This Says About Brad Garrett
The fact that a rock icon like Billy Joel stood beside him shows how respected Garrett is beyond the world of sitcoms. He’s not just Raymond’s awkward brother—he’s a performer and friend who built genuine relationships across entertainment.
Conclusion: A Friendship to Remember
It’s one of those quirky Hollywood stories that fans love: a sitcom star with a rock star best man. Brad Garrett and Billy Joel’s friendship proves that laughter and music really do go hand in hand.
So, while fans of Everybody Loves Raymond will always remember Garrett as Robert Barone, those in his inner circle will never forget the day The Piano Man sang a different tune—as his best man.
FAQs
1. Which rock icon was best man to an Everybody Loves Raymond star?
Billy Joel served as best man at Brad Garrett’s wedding.
2. Which Raymond star did Billy Joel support?
Brad Garrett, who played Robert Barone, had Joel as his best man.
3. How did Brad Garrett and Billy Joel become friends?
They bonded over their shared New York roots and careers in live performance.
4. Was Billy Joel’s best man speech serious or funny?
It was both—he mixed humor about Garrett’s height with heartfelt words.
5. Are Brad Garrett and Billy Joel still friends today?
While their friendship isn’t always in the public eye, their long history suggests a lasting bond.
