Brad Garrett Shares Why ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ Will Never Have a Reboot
For nine hilarious, heartfelt seasons, Everybody Loves Raymond was the warm, slightly dysfunctional comfort food of American television. Led by Ray Romano and an unforgettable supporting cast—especially Brad Garrett as the deep-voiced, towering brother Robert—this family sitcom became a cornerstone of ’90s and early 2000s TV.
But with so many old shows getting the reboot treatment (Frasier, Full House, That ’70s Show), fans have been wondering: why not Raymond?
Well, Brad Garrett finally gave a clear answer—and it might just break your nostalgic heart a little.
“It’s Just Not the Same Without Her”
The Loss of Doris Roberts Changed Everything
In a recent interview, Brad Garrett opened up about the lingering impact of losing co-star Doris Roberts, who played Marie Barone—the overbearing but oddly lovable matriarch of the family. “She was the glue,” Garrett said. “Without her, it’s not Raymond. It can’t be.”
Doris passed away in 2016 at age 90, and her absence left a void that can’t be filled—not by recasting, not by nostalgia, and certainly not by forcing a reboot.
Peter Boyle’s Death Was Another Heavy Blow
Frank Barone’s Sarcastic Genius Can’t Be Recreated
Peter Boyle, who played the hilariously grumpy Frank Barone, died in 2006. Garrett noted how much Boyle’s dry humor and timing brought balance to the cast. “He was the soul of the show’s sarcasm,” he said. “We were a family because of him.”
Trying to continue Everybody Loves Raymond without Frank and Marie? It’d feel like a reunion without your parents—awkward, empty, and just a little bit wrong.
A Reboot Would Damage the Original’s Legacy
Garrett Wants to Protect the Magic
It’s tempting to cash in on nostalgia, especially for a show that’s still streaming globally and has loyal fans across generations. But Garrett made it clear: the Raymond legacy is sacred.
“We ended the show on a high note,” he said. “We didn’t get canceled. We walked away proud. You don’t mess with that.”
Too many reboots, in his view, feel forced—trying to rekindle something that’s naturally run its course. “You risk turning something classic into a punchline,” he added.
The Cast Still Loves Each Other—But Not for TV
Off-Camera, They’re Still a Real Family
Garrett emphasized how close the cast remains, even years after the finale. He frequently mentions Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, and Monica Horan in interviews. “We’ve all stayed in touch,” he said. “We’ll always have that bond.”
They’ve reunited at charity events, panel discussions, and tributes. But a full-on TV comeback? Not gonna happen.
The Show’s Ending Was Perfectly Bittersweet
It Gave Closure Without Wrapping Things in a Bow
Everybody Loves Raymond ended with a typical family dinner and a health scare that brought the Barones closer than ever. It was subtle, heartfelt, and real—just like the series itself.
According to Garrett, that final episode was exactly what it needed to be: “We didn’t try to tie every knot. We just said goodbye like real families do—messy, funny, and full of love.”
The Industry Has Changed—And So Has TV Humor
Could Raymond Even Work in 2025?
Garrett raised a point many overlook: sitcoms have changed. Audiences have changed. “The show worked in its time,” he said. “Now, the humor might not land the same way.”
Shows today are faster-paced, edgier, more diverse, and often darker. Raymond’s old-school charm might feel too “safe” for today’s market—or worse, it might try to evolve in ways that would alienate original fans.
So, What About a One-Time Special?
Even That’s Unlikely—And That’s Okay
Could they do a reunion table read or a behind-the-scenes documentary? Garrett says there’ve been discussions, but nothing serious. And honestly, he seems at peace with leaving it all in the past.
“You don’t need more episodes to honor it,” he said. “Just remember how good it was.”
Brad Garrett Has Moved On—And Found New Success
From Stand-Up to Voice Acting to New TV Roles
Garrett has kept busy since Raymond. He’s voiced characters in major films (Finding Nemo, Ratatouille), performed stand-up across the country, and even starred in more dramatic roles (The Big Door Prize, I’m Dying Up Here).
While he’ll always be Robert Barone to millions, he’s never tried to copy/paste that role into the future. “Robert had his time,” Garrett said. “And I’m proud of him.”
Conclusion
While it’s natural for fans to wish for a reboot of Everybody Loves Raymond, Brad Garrett’s candid take reminds us of something important: sometimes, the best way to honor something special is to let it be.
The show captured lightning in a bottle—thanks to a perfect cast, heartfelt writing, and a genuine chemistry that can’t be recreated. And while we might never get new episodes, the Barones still live on in reruns, in memories, and in laughs that never grow old.
FAQs
1. Why won’t there be a reboot of Everybody Loves Raymond?
Brad Garrett says the loss of key cast members like Doris Roberts and Peter Boyle, along with a desire to protect the show’s legacy, are the main reasons.
2. Is the cast still close in real life?
Yes! Many cast members have stayed in touch and speak fondly of one another, even appearing together for tributes and special events.
3. Did the show end by choice or was it canceled?
The creators chose to end Everybody Loves Raymond after nine seasons, while it was still popular and critically acclaimed.
4. Has there ever been talk of a reunion special?
While there have been occasional talks or fan wishes, no official reunion special has ever been greenlit.
5. Where can I watch Everybody Loves Raymond today?
The series is available on platforms like Peacock, Paramount+, and DVD collections. It also airs in syndication around the world.
