Who is Raymond Married to in Real Life? The Inspiring Story of Ray and Anna Romano
How Did Ray Romano and Anna Romano Meet?
It’s often said that love comes when you least expect it, and Ray Romano’s story with Anna Romano is no exception. In the early 1980s, long before Ray became a household name with *Everybody Loves Raymond*, he was working as a bank teller in Queens, New York. That’s where he met Anna Scarpulla, the woman who would later become his wife.
Ray, ever the comedian, was already practicing his wit at the bank, keeping his coworkers and clients entertained with his humor. But there was something special about Anna that caught his eye. He waited until he no longer worked at the bank to ask her out, a strategic move to avoid potential awkwardness if things didn’t work out. Fortunately for him, Anna agreed to go on that first date, and they have been together ever since.
Ray often recalls how Anna “took a gamble” on him—he was a struggling comedian living with his parents and biking to work. The couple dated for two years before tying the knot in 1987. As Ray once shared with *Graham Bensinger* in an interview, “I knew I had to marry her when she put up with my jokes and my lifestyle. She was always supportive.”
Anna Romano’s Support for Ray’s Career
Behind every successful man is a strong woman, and that holds true for Ray and Anna. After getting married, Anna stood by Ray’s side as he pursued his dream of becoming a full-time comedian. This wasn’t an easy choice—he was still relatively unknown, and the road to success was uncertain.
Ray often speaks about Anna’s unwavering support. “She was always there, cheering me on when no one else believed in me,” he mentioned in a *GQ* interview. In the early 90s, when Ray got his big break with *Everybody Loves Raymond*, Anna remained a stabilizing force. The couple, now living in Los Angeles, kept their feet on the ground despite the whirlwind of fame that came with the success of the show.
Anna once mentioned in an interview with *People*, “I wasn’t into the Hollywood glitz and glamor. My role was to keep Ray and our family grounded.” Anna’s ability to handle the highs and lows of show business played a key role in the longevity of their marriage.
The Family They Built Together
Ray and Anna share four children: Alexandra, born in 1990; twin boys Matthew and Gregory, born in 1993; and their youngest son Joseph, born in 1998. Ray’s devotion to his family is something he often references, both in interviews and on his social media. Their tight-knit family was even reflected in the show *Everybody Loves Raymond*—Ray’s on-screen daughter, Ally, was named after his real-life daughter.
Anna’s role as a mother has been just as important as her role as a supportive wife. In an interview on *The Ellen Show*, Ray shared, “Anna’s my hero. She raised the kids while I was off working, and she never complained.”
Anna Romano’s Battle with Breast Cancer
In 2010, Anna was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer, a frightening moment for the Romano family. However, Anna’s resilience shone through during her treatment. Ray stood by her side, and the couple chose to keep the battle private at first, focusing on her recovery and their family.
During a 2012 appearance on *The Late Show with David Letterman*, Ray joked about how his relationship with Anna might “come to an end because I can’t stop getting on her nerves,” but he quickly shifted to a more heartfelt tone, expressing his gratitude for her strength.
The experience brought the family even closer. As Ray shared in a *People* magazine interview, “Anna’s strength during her battle with cancer was inspiring. She didn’t let it define her, and we got through it together.”
Anna’s Brief Foray into Entertainment
Though not actively involved in Hollywood, Anna Romano has made a few appearances in her husband’s career. In 2001, she made a cameo in *Everybody Loves Raymond* during the episode “The Angry Family.” She’s also lent her talents behind the scenes, working as a cinematographer for short films like *Quand s’approfondit l’hiver*.
Anna’s pragmatic approach to fame has always been clear. “I don’t need the spotlight,” she once said in an interview with *The List*. Her focus has remained on her family, and despite the many opportunities for fame, Anna has chosen a quieter, more private life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ray and Anna Romano
1. Who is Ray Romano married to?
– Ray Romano is married to Anna Scarpulla Romano. They have been married since 1987 and have four children.
2. How did Ray Romano meet his wife?
– Ray and Anna met while working at a bank in Queens, New York, in the early 1980s.
3. Did Anna Romano appear in *Everybody Loves Raymond*?
– Yes, Anna made a cameo appearance in the sixth season of *Everybody Loves Raymond*.
4. Has Anna Romano battled breast cancer?
– Yes, Anna was diagnosed with stage one breast cancer in 2010 and has since made a full recovery.
Ray and Anna’s Love: A Story of Endurance
The love story between Ray and Anna is one of enduring support, humor, and resilience. Over three decades of marriage, they’ve faced the ups and downs of fame, family life, and personal challenges with grace. Ray often says that Anna is his grounding force.
“I wouldn’t be where I am today without her,” he told *Graham Bensinger* during an interview. “She kept me going when I wasn’t sure if I could do it. And even now, with all the success, she’s the one keeping me grounded.”
This enduring partnership is a testament to their love and mutual respect. Whether it’s raising their children, surviving breast cancer, or navigating the complexities of fame, Ray and Anna Romano have shown that they are in it for the long haul.
Character Biography of Ray and Anna Romano
| Detail | Ray Romano | Anna Romano |
|---|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 21, 1957 | February 24, 1963 |
| Place of Birth | Queens, New York | New York City, New York |
| Profession | Actor, Comedian | Cinematographer, Actress |
| Children | 4 (Alexandra, Matthew, Gregory, Joseph) | 4 (Alexandra, Matthew, Gregory, Joseph) |
Quotes from Ray and Anna Romano
1. Ray Romano, speaking on his wife’s support: “She married me when I was broke, and she stayed through all of it. She’s the real hero in this relationship.” (*GQ Interview*)
2. Anna Romano, on her first kiss with Ray: “He literally couldn’t look at me afterward, just stared straight out the windshield. That’s when I knew he was special.” (*Double Date Podcast*)
References:
– people.com
– thelist.com
– news.amomama.com
– GQ.com
– The Ellen Show
