[played by John Pankow] Ira Buchman, Paul's first cousin, is a native of Sheepshead Bay, Long Island. A fun-loving guy who is always looking for an angle, Ira first appeared in the episode "Wedding Affair." A bandleader who plays lead saxophone, Ira has recorded many demos, and still harbors dreams of seeing a recording of his work released. Years ago, Ira started working for Paul's father, Burt, managing Buchman's Sporting Goods store; when Burt recently retired, he gave the store to Ira, who has adjusted quite well to his new responsibilities. FACTS Jamie has described Ira as "ubiquitous." Ira gifted Jamie with a pair of pumps for her 30th birthday. He gave Paul and Jamie an "object d'art" clock for their first anniversary. He first slept with Fran in Atlantic City. Ira also slept with "Spy Girl" Diane Caldwell. He is a member of Gambler's Anonymous and has been known to slip. His SAT scores were lower than Paul's. He plays racquetball regularly. GIRLFRIENDS AND WIVES MARIANNE LOUSAGO (Cyndi Lauper) Ira's ex-wife, whom he hadn't seen in 20 years. Worked at A&P, and as a Casino Hostess in Atlantic City. Taught Paul how to kiss after he sent her a Valentine in 5th grade. Ira can't say no to her. Paul lost his learner's permit because of her. MIMI (Maria Pitillo) Ira's date at the whaling musical hit, Moby! FRAN DEVEROW (Leila Kenzle) An affair of convenience, mostly pursued by Fran between more "significant" others. SOPHIA (Fabiana Udenio) The passionate daughter of Giuseppe the baker. SUSANNAH (Anne Bobby) An old school friend of Jamie's, Ira first suspected she might be a thief. Ira threatened to commit suicide to make it up to her when his cat killed her bird.