Ray Romano Reflects on 35 Years of Marriage and His Deeply Personal Film ‘Somewhere in Queens’
Ray Romano has made millions laugh, but behind his signature smirk is a man deeply rooted in love, family, and life’s raw realities. In 2025, with over three decades of marriage under his belt and a heartfelt new film hitting the screen, Romano gives us a peek behind the curtain—and it’s nothing short of inspiring.
The Beginning: From Bank Tellers to Hollywood Red Carpets
Before sitcom fame and movie roles, Ray and Anna Romano were just two regular people working at a bank in Queens. That’s where it all started.
Ray jokes that he “wasn’t exactly a catch”—living at home with his parents into his late 20s. But Anna saw something in him. That connection turned into love, and love turned into a 35-year-long marriage that has weathered the chaos of Hollywood without falling apart.
Why Ray and Anna’s Love Story Feels So Real
Let’s be honest: most Hollywood relationships don’t last. But Ray and Anna aren’t most people.
Their marriage is built on humor, humility, and a rock-solid friendship. Ray often says Anna keeps him grounded—and reminds him he’s not that funny at home. That balance is part of why their bond has stood the test of time.
A Movie Inspired by Real Life: ‘Somewhere in Queens’
Ray’s latest film, Somewhere in Queens, is more than just a movie—it’s a love letter to his roots, his family, and his experience as a father and husband.
What the Film Is Really About
The film centers around Leo Russo, a dad who gets a little too involved in his son’s basketball career. Sound familiar? That’s because the story was heavily inspired by Ray’s real life, especially the experiences he’s had raising his four kids.
How Anna’s Battle with Cancer Influenced the Script
Years ago, Anna was diagnosed with breast cancer. She beat it—but the emotional journey left a lasting mark on their family. Ray channeled that experience into the film, crafting a character that mirrors Anna’s strength and quiet resilience.
In one of the film’s most emotional scenes, the mother figure—played by Laurie Metcalf—talks about surviving cancer. Ray revealed that scene was directly inspired by his wife. Anna even told him, “Yeah, that’s pretty close.”
Romano’s Directorial Debut: Why It Took This Long
Ray has written, produced, and acted—but this was his first time directing. Why now?
He says he needed to wait until he had something meaningful to say. And with Somewhere in Queens, he does. The movie isn’t flashy. It’s subtle, deeply emotional, and—like Ray—full of heart.
Family Is the Foundation of Everything
Meet the Romano Kids
Ray and Anna have four children: Alexandra, twins Matthew and Gregory, and Joseph. Each of them has played a part in Ray’s creative process, even if they didn’t always realize it.
Joseph, the youngest, was a high school basketball star, and that’s what sparked the initial idea for Somewhere in Queens. Ray watched his son’s games and thought, “What if a dad got way too involved?”
Alexandra Romano: Co-Producer and Creative Partner
Ray’s daughter Alexandra worked as a co-producer on the film, proving the Romano legacy is a family affair. She also helped her dad stay on track creatively, making sure the emotional beats landed just right.
What Keeps Ray and Anna Together After All These Years
It’s not money, fame, or convenience. It’s communication, shared values, and laughter. Ray admits they still bicker—but it’s the healthy kind of bickering that comes from knowing someone so well you can’t not call them out.
Ray on Being a Husband in Hollywood
In interviews, Ray often jokes that his wife is “over” his career. While he’s off doing press, she’s more interested in their family, the real stuff. That contrast keeps him humble.
He once joked, “She reminds me all the time I’m not as famous at home as I am on TV.”
Ray on Fatherhood: More Than Just Dad Jokes
For Ray, being a dad isn’t about delivering one-liners—it’s about showing up. He’s always prioritized being present, even during his busiest years in television and film.
In Somewhere in Queens, we see a dad who’s trying his best, even if he doesn’t always get it right. Sound familiar?
‘Somewhere in Queens’ Is a Tribute to Everyday Life
While big-budget action movies dominate the box office, Somewhere in Queens is a breath of fresh air. It’s about family, dreams, sacrifice, and identity. It’s about being ordinary—and finding meaning in that.
Critical Response and Audience Reaction
Early screenings of the film have received positive buzz. Critics call it “quietly powerful,” and fans say it feels “real” in a way most Hollywood films don’t.
It’s not about heroes. It’s about humans.
Ray’s Message to Aspiring Filmmakers and Parents
“Tell the truth,” he says. Whether you’re making a film or raising a kid, honesty is everything. Don’t try to be perfect. Just be present.
What’s Next for Ray Romano?
Ray isn’t slowing down. After his directorial debut, he’s open to directing again—but only if the story feels as personal as Somewhere in Queens.
For now, he’s just enjoying the moment, celebrating 35 years with Anna, and soaking up the love from fans who still adore him—not just for making them laugh, but for making them feel seen.
Conclusion
Ray Romano’s story isn’t just about sitcom stardom or silver screen success—it’s about staying true to who you are. With Somewhere in Queens, he invites us into his world—a world built on love, humility, and family. After 35 years of marriage, a deeply personal movie, and a renewed sense of purpose, one thing’s clear:
Everybody still loves Raymond—because Raymond still loves everybody.
FAQs
1. What inspired Ray Romano’s film Somewhere in Queens?
The movie draws heavily from Ray’s own experiences as a father and husband, especially his youngest son’s basketball journey and his wife Anna’s battle with cancer.
2. How long have Ray and Anna Romano been married?
As of 2025, they’ve been married for 35 years. Their journey started when they worked together at a bank in Queens.
3. Is Somewhere in Queens Ray Romano’s first film?
It’s his first as a director. He’s acted and written before, but this marks his directorial debut.
4. Are Ray Romano’s children in the entertainment industry?
Yes! His daughter Alexandra worked on Somewhere in Queens as a co-producer. Some of his sons have also worked behind the scenes.
5. Why is Ray Romano still popular today?
Because he’s real. Whether it’s in a comedy special or a heartfelt movie, Ray’s authenticity continues to connect with audiences of all ages.
