After nearly a decade as a journeyman stand-up comic, Ray Romano came to television audience's attention with a 1991 appearance on "The Tonight Show With Johnny Carson.” Shortly after, his career began to ascend. With his dark looks, nasal New York accent and deadpan delivery, Romano offered commentary mixing familial humor with off-beat observations, focusing away from political and topical humor. He impressed late night host David Letterman enough for Letterman to develop a sitcom to showcase his unique talents.

Born in Queens and raised in the borough's middle class Forest Hills, Romano went