Though she had enjoyed an extensive acting career that showcased her incredible talent, Doris Roberts was not immune to the categorization that Hollywood was prone to thrust upon actors.

As one of the stars of Everybody Loves Raymond, Roberts had spent years making audiences laugh. However, during an interview, the actor explained that the success was bittersweet; she had entertained viewers, but she had also been deemed a “comedic actor” by the media.

“No one thinks I can do dramatic work anymore,” said Roberts during an interview with Associated Press. “I did 20 years on Broadway before I ever went out to California. I won an Emmy for playing a bag lady on St. Elsewhere! But once you get into the comedy bag, they pigeonhole you.” Never one to rest and remain idle, Roberts was able to earn more than a few dramatic roles, starring in the television film, A Time to Remember. “When this kind of opportunity comes along, I grab it,” said Roberts.

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Strangely enough, Roberts claimed that drama and comedy were not the polar opposites that many people seemed to assume them to be. “You don’t use different muscles playing comedy and playing drama,” said the actor. “You just make different choices.”

Moreover, Roberts kept up a zest for performing that never dulled, no matter the genre. “I have the same passion for my work today that I did when I was 18 years old,” said Roberts.