Oh, no! Say it ain't so, Ray! Say it ain't so!

The show's departure, on the heels of "Friends," "Frasier" and "Sex and the City," increases the sitcom shortfall. This year, "Everybody Loves Raymond" is the only top 10 comedy.

"So many shows are just joke bags," says creator Phil Rosenthal.

Raymond: "You're talking to the president of the Fat, Ugly Old Ladies Club. Welcome! Have a doughnut!"

"It's the one thing that appeals to the audience: They see themselves," says Raymond.

'Everybody' says goodbye, Raymond