Ray Romano Takes on a New Role in HBO Max’s Family Drama Pilot ‘How To Survive Without Me’

Ray Romano to Star in HBO Max Drama Pilot ‘How to Survive Without Me’

Emmy-winning actor Ray Romano has been cast as the lead in HBO Max’s drama pilot How to Survive Without Me, created by Greg Berlanti and Bash Doran in collaboration with Warner Bros. Television.

In this family drama, Romano portrays Leo, a newly widowed man stepping into the challenging role of single parent to his five adult children. The narrative unfolds in the aftermath of the De Angelis family matriarch, Beverly’s, passing. The family grapples with complex dynamics and the absence of Beverly’s guiding presence, while discovering that to honor her legacy, they must remain connected and support each other through life’s evolving challenges.

Romano’s rendition of Leo reveals his struggle to emerge from his wife’s shadow and to adapt to his new role, emphasizing the need to find his own voice as a father.

The casting decision stems from Romano’s previous collaboration with Berlanti in the upcoming Apple film Fly Me To the Moon, and it is understood that the character of Leo was specifically crafted for him.

Romano is no stranger to family-centric narratives, having captured audiences in Everybody Loves Raymond, for which he won an Emmy Award. He recently reunited with the cast of the beloved CBS sitcom for a special that garnered high ratings. Additionally, he has had recurring roles in NBC’s Parenthood.

Greg Berlanti, known for his expertise in family dramas, has previously created acclaimed shows such as Everwood, Brothers & Sisters, and Jack & Bobby.

Sarah Aubrey, Head of Max Original Programming, expressed excitement about Romano’s involvement, noting that the show aims to evoke the aspirational qualities of family dramas Berlanti is celebrated for. “It’s a grounded narrative centered around navigating love, loss, and a one-of-a-kind family, designed to deepen the audience’s connection to these beloved characters over time,” she stated.

Berlanti and Doran serve as executive producers alongside Sarah Schechter and Leigh London Redman. Robbie Rogers also joins as an executive producer through Berlanti Productions under its overall deal with Warner Bros. Television.

Clancy Collins White, President of Creative Affairs at Warner Bros. Television, praised Romano’s unique ability to infuse depth and humor into his characters. “We’re thrilled to welcome him to How to Survive Without Me as Leo, the patriarch woven into this deeply moving family story," White remarked.

How to Survive Without Me is one of two new pilots being developed by HBO Max, alongside the cop drama American Blue. This initiative is modeled after the streaming platform’s Emmy-winning series The Pitt, featuring a structure of over 15 episodes per season with a modest budget and annual release schedule.

In addition to How to Survive Without Me, Romano is set for a significant recurring role opposite Kate Hudson in the second season of Netflix’s Running Point. His notable series credits include Men of a Certain Age, No Good Deed, Get Shorty, and Made for Love. Romano is represented by WME, LBI Entertainment, The Conversation Company, and Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka.