James Burrows, the co-creator of 'Cheers' and a prolific television director known for shaping iconic sitcoms like 'Will & Grace,' 'Friends,' and 'Taxi,' has died at the age of 85. His family confirmed his death in a statement to People, stating he passed away peacefully on Friday surrounded by loved ones. No cause of death or location was provided.
Burrows directed over 1,000 episodes of television, including all 246 episodes of 'Will & Grace' and 243 of the 273 episodes of 'Cheers.' He also helmed episodes of 'Frasier,' 'Friends,' 'Mike & Molly,' and the pilots of 'Two and a Half Men' and 'The Big Bang Theory.' His career began in 1974 with 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show,' 'The Bob Newhart Show,' and 'Laverne & Shirley.'
Burrows was born in Los Angeles and later moved to New York, where he attended the High School of Music & Art. He graduated from Oberlin College and earned a master’s degree from Yale School of Drama. His father, Abe Burrows, was a playwright and composer known for works like 'Guys and Dolls.'
Throughout his career, Burrows won 11 Primetime Emmys and five Directors Guild of America Awards. He was also nominated for 15 DGA Awards. In 2020, he received an Emmy for Outstanding Variety Special (Live).
Burrows occasionally made cameos in the shows he directed, including appearances in 'Friends,' the 'Will & Grace' revival, and HBO’s 'The Comeback.' He is survived by his wife, Debbie Easton, and three daughters.
In his 2022 memoir, 'Directed by James Burrows,' he reflected on his approach to comedy: 'When I direct a television show, I try to reach that sweet spot where the best script meets the best performance and the best chemistry between performers.' His family described him as a mentor and creative force who brought joy to audiences worldwide.