Net Worth Ranker
What Is Doris Roberts’ Net Worth?
At the time of her death on April 17, 2016, Doris Roberts, the celebrated American actress known for her extensive work in film, stage, and television, had a net worth of $14 million. This figure represents the culmination of a career spanning several decades, marked by consistent roles and significant earnings, particularly from her iconic role in “Everybody Loves Raymond.”
Earnings from “Everybody Loves Raymond”
Doris Roberts’ portrayal of Marie Barone in the CBS sitcom “Everybody Loves Raymond” (1996-2005) was a significant contributor to her net worth. She appeared in all 210 episodes of the series, becoming a household name and a critical component of the show’s success. For much of the later half of the series, Doris earned $250,000 per episode. This impressive per-episode salary translated to approximately $5.5 million per season. Her talent and dedication to the role were recognized with two Emmy Awards for Outstanding Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series in 2001 and 2002.
During the final two seasons of “Everybody Loves Raymond,” Ray Romano’s salary was significantly increased to a record-setting $1.8 million per episode. While Romano’s earnings skyrocketed, Doris Roberts and Peter Boyle each continued to earn $250,000 per episode, and Patricia Heaton received $450,000. Brad Garrett, who was earning $160,000, sought an increase, leading to a period of negotiation and solidarity among the cast members. Ultimately, Garrett, Boyle, and Roberts received modest per-episode salary increases and, crucially, shares of the show’s back-end equity points. This meant that they would continue to earn money each time the show was sold into syndication, providing a long-term income stream that contributed to their overall net worth.
Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Born Doris May Green on November 4, 1925, in St. Louis, Missouri, Doris Roberts was raised in The Bronx, New York. Her early exposure to acting through local plays and her studies in journalism at New York University laid the foundation for her career. She transitioned into professional acting, engaging extensively in Broadway and Off-Broadway productions throughout the 1950s and 1960s. Her work on stage garnered attention, opening doors for opportunities in film and television.
Doris Roberts made her film debut in 1961 with a role in “Something Wild.” However, it was her performance in the 1974 film “The Taking of Pelham One Two Three” that brought her wider recognition. She became a familiar face on television, making frequent appearances in various popular TV shows. A significant turning point in her career came in 1983 when she was cast as Mildred Krebs on “Remington Steele.” This role earned her widespread recognition and paved the way for her iconic role in “Everybody Loves Raymond.” She appeared in 71 episodes of the show “Remington Steele.”
Real Estate Holdings
Approximately a year after Doris Roberts’ passing, her primary residences were listed for sale, reflecting the value of her real estate assets. In January 2017, her NYC duplex was put on the market for $3.3 million. The apartment eventually found a buyer in April 2019 when a Broadway producer purchased three units formerly owned by Doris, for a total of $4 million. The sale of these units significantly contributed to her estate’s overall value.
In April 2017, her LA home was listed for $2.45 million. She had originally purchased the home in 1976 for $138,000. This property eventually sold for $2 million. The appreciation in value over the decades underscores the success of her real estate investments. These real estate transactions played a role in maintaining and growing her net worth throughout her life.
Later Career and Additional Roles
Even after the conclusion of “Everybody Loves Raymond” in 2005, Doris Roberts continued to actively pursue roles in television and film. She appeared in TV series such as “The Middle” and “Grey’s Anatomy,” demonstrating her versatility and enduring appeal to audiences. She also took on roles in films like “Grandma’s Boy” and “Madea’s Witness Protection,” further contributing to her income and net worth.
Doris Roberts’ consistent work in the entertainment industry throughout her career ensured a steady stream of income, which, combined with her earnings from “Everybody Loves Raymond” and her real estate investments, contributed to her $14 million net worth at the time of her death. Her career was not only marked by financial success but also by critical acclaim and the affection of audiences worldwide.
Personal Life and Legacy
Doris Roberts was married twice. Her first marriage to Michael Emilio Cannata ended in divorce in 1962. The couple had one son, Michael Cannata Jr. In 1963, she married writer William Goyen. They remained together until his death in 1983. Doris Roberts passed away on April 17, 2016, leaving behind an impressive body of work. She was also a founding member of the Actors and Others for Animals. Roberts also served as the chairwoman of the Children with AIDS Foundation.
