Uncleeverybody Loves Raymond : Season 5 Epi... — Say

Robert’s habit of touching food to his chin, mentioned in this episode, was actually inspired by Ray Romano’s real-life brother , who had the same mannerism. Director: Kenneth Shapiro. Everybody Loves Raymond - Say Uncle - IMDb

In the Everybody Loves Raymond Season 5 episode (Episode 22), the Barone family’s usual sibling rivalry takes a parenting-focused turn. The episode, which first aired on May 7, 2001, explores the friction that arises when Ray realizes his children might actually prefer their "cool" Uncle Robert over him. The Plot: A Case of Parental Jealousy Say UncleEverybody Loves Raymond : Season 5 Epi...

After a stern talking-to from Marie, Ray goes to apologize. He finds Robert relaxing in a "society hot tub" with two attractive female neighbors, Colleen and Lisa. In a rare moment of vulnerability, Ray admits he gets bored easily with the kids, citing how the twins were more fascinated by a bottle cap at the zoo than the actual animals. Robert’s habit of touching food to his chin,

This leads to a heated argument where Ray tells Robert to "get a life," leaving Robert deeply hurt and the kids disappointed. Even the usually supportive Debra takes Robert's side, pointing out that Robert genuinely takes an interest in the children while Ray often finds parenting "boring". The episode, which first aired on May 7,

Michelle Beauchamp (Lisa) and Renee Faia (Colleen).

The conflict kicks off when Ray notices his kids picking up Robert’s quirky mannerisms—such as touching food to their chins before eating—and realizing they are genuinely excited about an upcoming trip to the zoo with their uncle. Feeling threatened, Ray decides he should be the one to take them instead.