Everybody Loves Raymond' star, Doris Roberts, dies

Doris Roberts, famously known for playing Marie Barone, the nosy mother of Raymond Barone on Everybody Loves Raymond, died in her sleep on Sunday.

She was 90 years old.

A family spokeswoman confirmed the news, adding that up until her death, Roberts was active and healthy.

The actress played Marie Barone on Everybody Loves Raymond, which ran from 1996-2005, earning four Emmys for her role along the way.

Ray Romano, who played her son on the series, paid tribute saying she "had an energy and a spirit that amazed me".

"She never stopped," he said in an interview. "Whether working professionally or with her many charities, or just nurturing and mentoring a green young comic trying to make it as an actor, she did everything with such a grand love for life and people and I will miss her dearly."

Patricia Heaton, who played Marie's daughter-in-law Debra, said it was "truly the end of an era".

"My wonderful TV mother-in-law and (Everbody Loves Raymond) nemesis Doris Roberts was a consummate professional from whom I learned so much," she said.

"She was funny and tough and loved life, living it to the fullest. It was truly a privilege."

Brad Garrett, Roberts' other on-screen son, added he was "deeply saddened" and paid tribute to "an amazing lady and brilliant actor".

"Doris was vibrant and full of life both on and off the stage, and I am so grateful we shared so many wonderful memories. I will miss her greatly and will always remember her incredible kindness, humour, talent and heart."

Phil Rosenthal, creator of Everybody Loves Raymond, described her "a wonderful, funny, indelible actress and friend".

CBS said in a statement that Roberts "will be remembered for lighting up every room she walked into with an unparalleled combination of energy, humour, warmth and even a little bit of grit."

Roberts earned her first Emmy in 1983, for her supporting role on the series St. Elsewhere.

The actress was also known for her role in the 1980s TV detective series Remington Steele. Her early TV appearances included episodes of Studio One, The Naked City and The Defenders.

Roberts also appeared in several films, including The Rose, Madea's Witness Protection and the original version of The Taking of Pelham 123.

Fellow actors took to social media on Tuesday to pay tribute to her.

Actor James Woods tweeted: "So sad to hear of Doris Roberts' passing. What a lovely person and a fun colleague she was. RIP, dear Doris."

Roberts often played mothers, and over the course of her career was cast as the mother to characters played by Billy Crystal, Bette Midler and Tony Danza.

On Tuesday, Danza paid tribute to the actress on Twitter, writing: "Rest in peace, Doris Roberts. Thank you for playing my mom. Thinking about Michael and the rest of your family."