Doris May Roberts (born November 4, 1925 – April 17, 2016) was an acclaimed American actress best recognized for her role as Marie Barone on the popular sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond,” she enjoyed a successful career in television and stage. She began her journey in the arts on Broadway before making a notable mark on television, earning multiple Emmy Awards for her outstanding work on “Everybody Loves Raymond.” Her talent and charm endeared her to audiences, making Doris Roberts a beloved figure in the entertainment sphere.
Early Life
Doris Roberts was born to a Russian-Jewish immigrant family on November 4, 1925, in St. Louis, Missouri. Growing up in modest circumstances, her family faced challenges when her father, Larry Green, left. Following his departure, Doris’s mother, Ann Robert, married Chester H. Roberts.
Taking her stepfather’s surname, Doris became known as Doris Roberts. Her mother and stepfather operated the Z.L. Rosenfield Agency, a stenographic service that catered to playwrights and actors. Despite the family’s struggles, they remained close-knit, fostering a supportive environment for Doris.
Early on, Doris developed a passion for acting, and her journey in the entertainment world began to take shape. She attended New York University, where she refined her dramatic skills. Her early career featured performances in regional theaters, eventually leading to her Broadway debut in the 1955 play “The Time of Your Life.”
Career
Doris Roberts, a seasoned actress whose remarkable career spanned several decades, initially captured the spotlight with a noteworthy Broadway debut in the acclaimed “The Time of Your Life” in 1955. This began a journey filled with standout roles, including notable performances in productions such as “The Desk Set” and “The Last of the Red Hot Lovers.” The 1970s witnessed a significant breakthrough on television, where Doris made memorable guest appearances on popular shows and secured a prominent role in the detective series “Remington Steele.”
However, her portrayal of the meddlesome yet endearing Marie Barone in the widely beloved sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond” propelled her to stardom, earning her four prestigious Primetime Emmy Awards. Her ability to infuse depth and charm into her characters made her an iconic figure in the entertainment landscape.
Beyond the confines of the small screen, Doris Roberts showcased her versatile talents in films, leaving an indelible mark with roles in classics like “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” and “The Taking of Pelham One Two Three.” Even in her later years, Roberts remained a dynamic force in the industry, taking on roles in projects like “Hot in Cleveland” and “Melissa & Joey.”
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Doris Roberts earned a well-deserved star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2003. Her comedic prowess, versatility, and the genuine depth she brought to her characters continue to be celebrated, cementing her as an enduring and beloved figure in the hearts of fans and fellow performers alike. Doris Roberts left a lasting legacy that transcends eras, a testament to her unparalleled talent and enduring impact on the entertainment world.
Personal Life
Doris Roberts experienced the complexities of love and loss through her two marriages. Her first marriage to Michael Cannata in 1956 brought forth a son, Michael Cannata Jr., who was born in 1960. Unfortunately, the marriage faced challenges and concluded in divorce in 1962. In 1963, Doris found love anew and married the esteemed writer William Goyen. However, this chapter took a poignant turn with Goyen’s passing in 1983.
The personal trials in Doris Roberts‘ life deepened with the profound sorrow of losing her only son, Michael Cannata Jr., in 2001—a heartbreaking tragedy that left an enduring impact. Despite these adversities, Roberts found strength in her resilient spirit, drawing solace from her enduring career and close-knit relationships.
The final curtain fell on Doris Roberts‘ life on April 17, 2016, at 90. A stroke was reported as the cause of her death, marking the end of a remarkable journey filled with personal triumphs and tribulations, both in her career and her private life.
Net Worth
During her career, Doris accumulated an estimated net worth of over US$14 million.