Ray Routhier

Press Herald

Ray Routhier writes about pop culture, entertainment, music, TV and lifestyle issues. In more than 23 years at the Portland Press Herald/Maine Sunday Telegram, he has been continually fascinated with stories that show the unique character of Maine’s people and places. The word he uses most for stories he’s drawn to is “quirky.” He’s written about the changing cable TV and Internet landscapes, and what those changes mean for the future of information and entertainment. He’s dug clams, raked blueberries and rode on the back of a garbage truck, all in pursuit of stories about real Mainers. He’s had a ball interviewing a range of celebrities from Anna Kendrick and Patrick Dempsey to Billy Joel and Tony Bennett. His passions, besides writing, include baseball history, old movies and “Jeopardy!” A native of Manchester, N.H., he graduated with a degree in political science from the University of New Hampshire. He lives in South Portland with his wife and two daughters.

Latest

Published
May 11, 2020

Some Maine summer camps won’t open this season, while others wait for guidance

The coronavirus pandemic has already caused overnight, day and rec camps around Maine to cancel summer sessions, while others hope they can open.
Published
May 11, 2020

There’s a lot on TV that’s totally free, if you know where to look

Short on cash but long on time? Now’s a good time to discover what’s free on TV, from streaming services to more than two dozen over-the-air channels.
Published
May 10, 2020

With help from his home state, Maine native brings icy thriller to the big stream

Shot last winter around the Bethel and Rumford areas, ‘Blood and Money,’ starring Tom Berenger, will be on cable and streaming services Friday.
Published
May 8, 2020

Maine diner that twice appeared on Food Network to close after 66 years

Uncle Andy’s Diner owner, Dennis Fogg, says takeout business hasn’t been enough to keep the diner afloat, and he’ll close it for good at the end of May.
Published
May 4, 2020

Want to learn a new skill? Take a lesson from a local online

Use your newfound downtime to take up a new hobby, from tap dancing to mixology.
Published
April 29, 2020

WGAN weekend host John McDonald fired after 25 years

McDonald, 75, is the second longtime host the AM station has released in the past month.
Published
April 27, 2020

New TV show on Maine Public aims to help remote learners

‘The Learning Space,’ featuring lessons from Maine teachers, is airing weekdays at 12:30 p.m.
Published
April 27, 2020

For comedians during the coronavirus crisis, the joke’s online

With live gigs canceled, Maine comics are taking their talents to Facebook, Instagram and other platforms.
Published
April 26, 2020

Lack of clarity about mask-wearing causing a face-off

People’s decisions to wear or not wear a face covering during the COVID-19 pandemic has created anger and defiance in some, but a feeling of solidarity in others.
Published
April 20, 2020

Check out what local libraries are doing now

With physical locations closed, southern Maine libraries are offering a range of online services and activities, from books and movies to author talks, cooking demos and writing groups.