Ray Romano lands leading role in 'aspirational family drama'
Everybody Loves Raymond star Ray Romano has been cast in an emotional and "aspirational family drama" for HBO Max.
Ray Romano has been cast in a new "aspirational family drama".
The 68-year-old star - best known for his leading role in classic sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond - is set to front new HBO Max drama pilot How To Survive Without Me, which follows a family in the wake of the death of matriarch Beverly.
As reported by Deadline, Ray will be widower Leo De Angelis, whose family are trying to navigated a difficult time in their lives, while Beverly has found a way to keep running things even after her passing.
Leo and his five complicated children have to figure out their lives without their wife and mother respectively, while doing their best to remain connected despite drifting after her death.
Greg Berlanti and Bash Doran have penned the script for the pilot from a story co-written with Robbie Rodgers.
It's said the role of Leo was written for Ray, following on from his experience in Greg's 2024 Apple film Fly Me To The Moon.
Sarah Aubrey, Head of Max Original Programming, said: “We are so excited to work with Ray on How to Survive Without Me.
“The show harkens back to the kinds of aspirational family dramas that Greg does so well, a grounded narrative centred around navigating love, loss, and a one-of-a-kind family.
"It’s a project designed to return year after year, continually deepening the audience’s connection to these beloved characters and their unique story.”
Meanwhile, Clancy Collins White - President, Creative Affairs, Warner Bros. Television - hailed Ray as an "icon" and someone who will be able to "bring nuance and heart" to the character.
She added: “Ray is a beloved icon who has an incredible gift for bringing both depth and levity to every character he portrays.
“We’re thrilled to welcome him to How to Survive Without Me as Leo, the patriarch woven into this deeply moving family story.
"We know his performance will bring nuance and heart to Greg and Bash’s vision, and form a powerful emotional connection with viewers.”
HBO Max's idea for How To Survive Without Me is to be developed in line with The Pitt's model, which is 15+ episodes a season, with a modest budget, and a yearly release.
