Ray Romano Tried to Change the Name of Everybody Loves Raymond – Here’s Why It Didn’t Happen
Most sitcom titles come and go without controversy. But for Ray Romano, the name Everybody Loves Raymond wasn’t just awkward—it was agonizing. Before it became one of the most beloved TV comedies of all time, Ray did everything he could to change the name of the show. So, why didn’t it happen?
Let’s dive into the surprising story behind the title that made Ray famous—and uncomfortable.
The Title Was a Real-Life Joke
It all started with a sarcastic comment. After Ray won an early stand-up award, his real-life brother, a New York City police officer, joked, “I get shot at, and everybody loves Raymond.” That one-liner stuck. When CBS picked up the show, the team used it as the working title—thinking it was temporary.
Spoiler: it wasn’t.
Ray Romano Absolutely Hated It
Ray Romano wasn’t just unsure about the title—he hated it. He thought it sounded cocky, even arrogant. The idea that “everybody” loved him made him cringe. Ray wasn’t some flashy celebrity—he was a self-deprecating comedian from Queens. The title didn’t feel like him at all.
He Knew the Jokes Were Coming
Ray wasn’t just worried about the public’s reaction. He knew critics and viewers would flip the title into a punchline. And they did. He heard comments like, “Not everybody loves Raymond,” constantly. Imagine going to a party or doing an interview and hearing that on repeat. It got old, fast.
He Even Tried to Change It with CBS
When the show was greenlit, Ray went straight to the top. He called CBS executives and even reached out to David Letterman—whose production company was behind the show. He pleaded for a new name.
But the response? “We tested it, and Everybody Loves Raymond was the best-performing title.” Game over.
Some of His Alternate Title Ideas Were… Interesting
Ray was so desperate to rename the show that he pitched other options himself. Here are a few of his suggestions:
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“Raymond’s World”
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“Meet the Barones”
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“That Raymond Guy”
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“Um… Raymond”
None of them stuck. CBS stood firm.
He Was Promised a Name Change Later… But It Never Came
At one point, CBS offered a compromise. If the show was successful, then Ray could change the name. He agreed—but once the ratings soared and it became a top 10 hit, CBS refused. The title had become part of the show’s brand. There was no turning back.
The Success Made It Worth It… Kind Of
Despite all his protests, Ray eventually made peace with the name. The show ran for nine seasons, won 15 Emmys, and still airs in syndication worldwide. The title that tortured him also helped launch him into stardom.
Still, if you ask him today? He’ll tell you: “I still hate the title.”
Ray Romano’s Modesty Is What Made the Show Work
Ironically, the very thing Ray hated—the title—represented what people loved about him. He was humble. Real. Relatable. The discomfort he felt about being in the spotlight is what made his on-screen character so likable.
So maybe the title worked not because it was perfect, but because it wasn’t.
He Turned Down Reboot Offers
With the trend of sitcom revivals, fans have wondered if Everybody Loves Raymond might return. But Ray has said no. He’s “protective” of the show and its legacy. The cast, the time, the chemistry—it was lightning in a bottle. Some things are better left untouched.
Conclusion
Ray Romano may have tried hard to change the title of Everybody Loves Raymond, but in the end, that very name became iconic. While he cringed at it, the world embraced it—and him. It’s a classic case of hating the thing that ends up defining your success. And whether he liked it or not, everybody really did end up loving Raymond.
FAQs
1. Why did Ray Romano want to change the show’s name?
He thought it sounded arrogant and was afraid it would set him up for ridicule.
2. What was the original source of the title?
It came from a sarcastic comment his brother made after Ray won a comedy award.
3. What names did Ray suggest instead?
Some of his suggestions included “That Raymond Guy,” “Um… Raymond,” and “Raymond’s World.”
4. Did CBS ever let him change the name?
No. Even though they hinted at it early on, they refused once the show became a hit.
5. Would Ray ever consider a reboot?
Probably not. He’s turned down offers and prefers to protect the legacy of the original series.
