It’s been decades since Everybody Loves Raymond first aired, but the sitcom still holds a special place in our hearts. With its sharp writing, relatable family chaos, and unforgettable characters, the show gave us episode after episode of pure comedic gold.
If you’ve ever debated with friends about which Everybody Loves Raymond episode is the best, you’re not alone. Today, we’re ranking the 10 greatest episodes of all time—and trust us, number one is absolutely undisputed.
The Impact of Everybody Loves Raymond
Before we dive in, let’s give credit where it’s due. Premiering in 1996, the series ran for nine successful seasons, winning 15 Primetime Emmy Awards and pulling in millions of loyal viewers every week.
The Barones weren’t just a TV family—they felt like our own. Whether it was Marie barging into Ray and Debra’s home, Frank’s blunt one-liners, Robert’s awkward jealousy, or Ray’s struggle to keep the peace, every episode tapped into the everyday madness of family life.
The Top 10 Best ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ Episodes
Let’s break down the ultimate list that every fan will agree on.
10. “The Checkbook” (Season 2, Episode 7)
Money and marriage rarely mix smoothly, and this episode nails the humor in financial disagreements. When Ray takes over managing the household checkbook, chaos follows. Watching Ray’s cluelessness unfold while Debra struggles to bite her tongue is TV magic.
9. “The Angry Family” (Season 6, Episode 1)
This fan-favorite episode begins with Michael, Ray and Debra’s son, reading a story at school about “The Angry Family”—a thinly veiled version of the Barones. The scene quickly spirals into an all-out family meltdown, proving the writers’ genius at turning everyday dysfunction into laugh-out-loud comedy.
8. “Debra’s Sick” (Season 2, Episode 21)
When Debra comes down with the flu, Ray is forced to take care of the kids—and hilariously fails at every turn. This episode resonates with anyone who’s ever felt unappreciated for the daily grind of parenting. Patricia Heaton shines here, giving us a perfect mix of comedy and exasperation.
7. “Robert’s Divorce” (Season 4, Episode 2)
Robert’s bad luck in love is one of the running gags of the show, and this episode delivers it perfectly. Watching him process his divorce while the rest of the family awkwardly “helps” creates both cringeworthy and comedic gold.
6. “Ray’s Journal” (Season 6, Episode 19)
We’ve all had private thoughts we hope never see the light of day. In this classic, Debra discovers Ray’s journal, and the fallout is as hilarious as it is uncomfortable. It’s one of those episodes that exposes the characters’ flaws in the funniest way possible.
5. “The Toaster” (Season 3, Episode 12)
When Ray gives personalized toasters as Christmas gifts, his parents return theirs—sparking drama that only the Barones could create. What should have been a simple holiday gesture turns into a lesson on love, appreciation, and family stubbornness.
4. “Married to a Mob” (Season 8, Episode 12)
Ray accidentally befriends a mobster, and what follows is comedy gold. The tension between Ray’s guilt, his family’s fear, and the mobster’s unexpected friendliness makes this one of the most unique—and funniest—episodes of the series.
3. “Jealous Robert” (Season 3, Episode 16)
Robert’s constant struggle to live in Ray’s shadow is on full display here. His jealousy over Ray’s seemingly perfect life hits a boiling point, leading to laugh-out-loud sibling rivalry and some surprisingly tender moments.
2. “T-Ball” (Season 7, Episode 23)
Parenting pressure takes center stage in this unforgettable episode. When Ray and Debra’s daughter Ally struggles in T-ball, Ray’s over-competitive streak comes out. The humor blends perfectly with the all-too-real anxieties of raising kids in a competitive world.
1. “The Finale” (Season 9, Episode 16)
No surprise here—the series finale takes the crown. In the episode, Ray goes in for a minor surgery, and the family fears the worst. For once, the laughter is mixed with raw emotion as the Barones reflect on life, love, and family. It’s touching, hilarious, and the perfect ending to a legendary show.
This isn’t just the best Everybody Loves Raymond episode—it’s one of the greatest sitcom finales in TV history.
Why These Episodes Still Resonate
So, what makes these episodes so timeless? It’s simple: relatability.
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Family chaos? Check.
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Sibling rivalry? Double check.
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Marriage struggles? Absolutely.
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Parents who drive you nuts but mean well? 100%.
The Barones are exaggerated versions of our own families, which is why their stories still feel fresh decades later.
The Genius of the Cast
Of course, none of this would have worked without the incredible cast:
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Ray Romano brought his laid-back, everyman humor.
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Patricia Heaton gave Debra sharp wit and authenticity.
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Brad Garrett made Robert’s insecurities lovable.
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Doris Roberts and Peter Boyle were unforgettable as Marie and Frank, delivering some of TV’s best comedic timing.
The chemistry between the actors made every punchline land perfectly.
Behind the Scenes: Writing That Worked
The writing team deserves major credit. They never relied on slapstick or over-the-top gags. Instead, they mined humor from real life—arguments over chores, sibling rivalries, and in-laws who never leave. That’s why these episodes still hold up today.
The Lasting Cultural Impact
Everybody Loves Raymond didn’t just entertain—it influenced future sitcoms. Shows like The Middle and Modern Family clearly borrowed elements of family-driven humor from the Barones.
The fact that the series is still binge-worthy on streaming platforms proves its staying power.
Rewatch Value: Why Fans Keep Coming Back
Even if you’ve seen these episodes before, they’re endlessly rewatchable. Why? Because the humor is layered. You notice new jokes, expressions, and subtleties every time. It’s like hanging out with family—you always discover something new.
Conclusion
When it comes to sitcoms, Everybody Loves Raymond stands in a league of its own. The 10 episodes listed above showcase everything that made the series a classic: sharp writing, pitch-perfect acting, and a blend of humor and heart that never gets old.
And while fans may debate the order of the rankings, one thing’s for sure: the finale will always remain the undisputed number one.
FAQs
1. How many seasons did Everybody Loves Raymond run?
The show ran for 9 seasons from 1996 to 2005.
2. Which episode is considered the funniest?
Many fans point to “The Angry Family” or “The Toaster” as the funniest, but it depends on personal taste.
3. Did the cast win awards for their performances?
Yes, the series earned 15 Primetime Emmy Awards, with wins for Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Brad Garrett, and Doris Roberts.
4. Where can I watch Everybody Loves Raymond now?
The series is available for streaming on platforms like Peacock, Paramount+, and Amazon Prime Video.
5. Why is the finale considered the best episode?
Because it perfectly balances comedy and heart, wrapping up the series in a way that felt both satisfying and emotional.
