Ray Romano has paid tribute to his ‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ co-star Doris Roberts.
The 58-year-old actor – who portrays the titular character in the sitcom – was full of praise for the late actress’ work ethic following her passing aged 90 on Sunday (17.04.16), admitting he will miss the star, who portrayed his on-screen mother Marie Barone, "dearly".
He told PEOPLE: "Doris Roberts had an energy and a spirit that amazed me. She never stopped.
"Whether working professionally or with her many charities, or just nurturing and mentoring a young, green comic trying to make it as an actor, she did it all with such a grand love for life and people and I will miss her dearly."
Several other cast and crew members attached to the sitcom have also paid tribute to Doris, including Patricia Heaton, who portrays Ray’s wife Debra.
Captioning her tribute, "To my beloved Marie – RIP" on Twitter, Patricia wrote: "Truly the end of an era. My wonderful TV mother-in-law and ELR nemesis Doris Roberts was a consummate professional from whom I learned so much.
"She was funny and tough and loved life, living it to the fullest. Nothing gave her greater joy than her three wonderful grandchildren, of whom she was so proud. It truly was a privilege Doris. I love you and miss you."
‘Everybody Loves Raymond’ creator Phil Rosenthal tweeted: "We loved our mom, the great #DorisRoberts. A wonderful, funny, indelible actress and friend. (sic)"
Doris is survived by her son Michael Cannata Jr, from her first marriage to Michael Cannata, which ended in divorce in 1962, and her three grandchildren.
Ray Romano pays tribute to Doris Roberts
