Doris Roberts Net Worth

Doris Roberts’ Net Worth: A Look at the Life and Legacy of the ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ Star

Doris Roberts, a beloved American actress, left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. Best known for her iconic role as Marie Barone in the hit CBS sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond,” Roberts charmed audiences with her comedic timing and relatable portrayal of a meddling but loving mother. But what was Doris Roberts’ net worth, and what else contributed to her impressive career and legacy? This article delves into the life, career, and financial success of Doris Roberts, exploring her journey from stage actress to television icon.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Doris May Green, later known as Doris Roberts, was born on November 4, 1925, in St. Louis, Missouri. Raised in the Bronx, New York, she developed a passion for acting early in life. She pursued her interest by studying journalism at New York University, while also performing in local plays. After graduating, she fully immersed herself in the world of acting, working extensively on Broadway and Off-Broadway productions throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Her dedication and talent on the stage earned her critical acclaim and opened doors to opportunities in film and television. Roberts’ early career laid the foundation for her future success, showcasing her versatility and commitment to her craft.

Rise to Fame and Breakthrough Roles

Roberts made her film debut in 1961 with a role in “Something Wild,” but it was her appearance in the 1974 film “The Taking of Pelham One Two Three” that brought her wider recognition. During the 1970s and 1980s, she made frequent appearances on popular television shows, impressing audiences with her dynamic performances. Her breakthrough role came in 1983 when she was cast as Mildred Krebs on “Remington Steele,” a part that earned her widespread recognition and set the stage for her most memorable role.

‘Everybody Loves Raymond’: The Role of a Lifetime

In 1996, Doris Roberts was cast as Marie Barone in the CBS sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond.” This role would become the defining moment of her career. Her portrayal of the meddlesome, yet lovable, Italian mother resonated with viewers across the country. Roberts beat out over 100 other actresses to secure the role, and went on to appear in all 210 episodes of the show. Her comedic timing, combined with her ability to bring emotional depth to the character, made Marie Barone a beloved figure in American television. The role earned Roberts seven Primetime Emmy Award nominations, of which she won four for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series (2001, 2002, and others), solidifying her legacy as one of television’s most memorable and awarded performers.

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‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ Salary and Disputes

The success of “Everybody Loves Raymond” brought considerable financial rewards for the cast. During the later seasons of the show, Doris Roberts earned $250,000 per episode, which equated to approximately $5.5 million per season. However, salary negotiations during the final seasons led to some tension. Ahead of the final two seasons, Ray Romano’s per-episode salary was raised to a then record-setting $1.8 million. While Peter Boyle and Doris Roberts were each earning $250,000 per episode, and Patricia Heaton made $450,000, Brad Garrett, who was earning $160,000, felt his compensation was not commensurate with his contribution to the show’s success.

Garrett launched a protest and requested a salary increase. When the studio declined, he was written out of the first episode of the upcoming season, and eventually a number of episodes. In solidarity, Patricia Heaton, Peter Boyle, and Doris Roberts all called in sick, halting production for several weeks. Ultimately, a settlement was reached, which included modest per-episode salary increases and, more importantly, shares of the show’s back-end equity points. This allowed them to continue earning money through syndication royalties for years to come, a significant benefit for their long-term financial security.

Links to actors’ net worth:

• Ray Romano
• Peter Boyle
• Patricia Heaton
• Brad Garrett

Later Career and Philanthropy

Even after “Everybody Loves Raymond” concluded in 2005, Roberts remained active in the entertainment industry. She took on roles in various TV series, including “The Middle” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” and appeared in films such as “Grandma’s Boy” and “Madea’s Witness Protection.” Beyond her acting career, Roberts was also known for her philanthropic work. She was a dedicated supporter of children’s charities and animal rights organizations. Additionally, she was a founding member of Actors and Others for Animals and served as the chairwoman of the Children with AIDS Foundation.

Personal Life and Real Estate

Doris Roberts was married twice. Her first marriage to Michael Emilio Cannata ended in divorce in 1962, and they had one son, Michael Cannata Jr. In 1963, she married writer William Goyen, and they remained together until his death in 1983. After her passing, Roberts’ real estate holdings came into the spotlight. In January 2017, her New York City duplex was listed for sale at $3.3 million. The apartment eventually sold in April 2019 to a Broadway producer for a total of $4 million. Her Los Angeles home, which she purchased in 1976 for $138,000, was listed for $2.45 million in April 2017 and eventually sold for $2 million. These transactions provided insights into the value of her property portfolio.

Doris Roberts’ Net Worth at Death

At the time of her death on April 17, 2016, Doris Roberts had a net worth of $14 million. This figure reflects her successful acting career, including her significant earnings from “Everybody Loves Raymond,” her work in film and television, and her real estate holdings. Her financial success is a testament to her talent, hard work, and enduring appeal.

Conclusion: A Lasting Legacy

Doris Roberts left behind a rich legacy. From her early stage performances to her iconic role as Marie Barone, she consistently entertained audiences with her wit, warmth, and ability to bring characters to life. Her philanthropy and dedication to various causes also highlighted her generous spirit. Doris Roberts’ net worth at the time of her death, combined with her lasting impact on television and her commitment to making a difference, cements her status as a beloved and respected figure in the entertainment industry.