For nine seasons, Doris Roberts brought to life Marie Barone — the meddling, loving, fiercely opinionated mother from the hit sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond. Her portrayal re-defined the TV matriarch: not merely a comedic foil, but a woman of strength, quirks, and heartfelt vulnerability. When she passed away in April 2016 at the age of 90, the news marked the end of an era for fans and colleagues alike.
This article unfolds Roberts’ full narrative: from her early acting years, to her iconic role, to the legacy she left behind — and how her departure resonated far beyond the sitcom set.
From Broadway to Barone
Born in St. Louis in 1925, Roberts pursued acting in New York and on stage long before she became a household name. Her early career spanned decades, with roles in both dramatic and comedic settings. When Everybody Loves Raymond premiered in 1996, viewers found in Marie Barone a character at once exasperating and endearing — Roberts made her unforgettable.
As one of her co-stars later reflected: “Doris Roberts had an energy and a spirit that amazed me… she never stopped.”
Her ability to bring life to the role of Marie — a mother many recognised from their own lives — endeared her to millions. In one interview, Roberts said: “I play Marie because she’s real — she’s the mother many of us know, whether we admit it or not.”
The Marie Barone Phenomenon
Roberts’ performance earned her multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress and a total of seven nominations for that role. Her ability to balance the sharp wit of Marie with moments of warmth resonated with audiences. The character’s recurring phrase — to her son Ray, “Oh, come on!” — became a catch-phrase that transcended the show.
Her work also challenged ageism. In 2002, Roberts testified before the Senate Special Committee on Aging about the scarcity of roles for older women in Hollywood. Her activism extended her influence beyond the screen.
The Final Years & Her Passing
On April 17, 2016, Doris Roberts died in her sleep in Los Angeles at the age of 90. While her family described it as natural causes, the public impact was immediate. Tributes poured in from co-stars: one reflecting, “To my beloved Marie – RIP.” Another: “We loved our mom, the great Doris Roberts. A wonderful, funny, indelible actress and friend.”
Her passing drew attention to how characters — and actors — become part of viewers’ lives. Fans were reminded that the fictional Barone family had lost a real anchor. As one cast member later reflected, the show would never quite feel the same without her — her presence anchored the tone and heart of the series.
Legacy & Reflection
Roberts did more than elicit laughs; she changed the perception of older women on television. Her Marie Barone was flawed, funny, domineering — yet deeply human. Her passing forced the public to reflect not only on the show’s humor, but on the fragility of life behind the laughter.
Her legacy lives on: the character of Marie remains memorable, but perhaps more importantly, the actress behind her exemplified professionalism, resilience and kindness. She once said: “When you love your work, it shows.” Her body of work, spanning over six decades, continues to inspire.
FAQs
Q1: When did Doris Roberts die?
She died on April 17, 2016, at age 90. Los Angeles Times+1
Q2: What role was she best known for?
Marie Barone on Everybody Loves Raymond.
Q3: What awards did she win?
She received four Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress for her role as Marie. Wikipedia
Q4: Was her death due to illness?
She died in her sleep of natural causes, according to her son. The Washington Post+1
Q5: What is her lasting contribution?
She created a benchmark for comedic roles played by older women and left a legacy of warmth, humor and strength.
