Former Friends star Jennifer Aniston has joined castmates David Schwimmer, Lisa Kudrow, and Matt LeBlanc in paying tribute to "father figure" director James Burrows following his death at age 85. Burrows, who directed the iconic US sitcom and co-created the classic Cheers, died peacefully surrounded by family, his family confirmed in a statement to People magazine.
Aniston's Emotional Tribute
In an Instagram post accompanied by photos of the cast with Burrows, Aniston, 57, wrote: "The hardest thing about writing this is that you spent a lifetime making people feel loved, and now it feels impossible to put all of that love into a few paragraphs." She described how Burrows called the cast his "kids" and said: "He was a father figure to me. He always checked in on me. He worried about me, celebrated me, taught me, guided me, and held me through the hardest times and the best of times."
Castmates Share Memories
Schwimmer, 59, who played Ross Geller, echoed Aniston's sentiments, calling Burrows "another father figure" and praising his "warmth, humility and generosity." He added: "On my best days, I'd like to think, even proud." LeBlanc, 58, who portrayed Joey Tribbiani, wrote: "You sir are a true icon on so many levels. You will be missed." Kudrow, 62, shared a photo of herself with Burrows on her Instagram story.
Burrows' Legendary Career
Burrows, who co-created Cheers and directed numerous episodes of Friends, also worked on The Big Bang Theory and Will & Grace. He won 11 Emmy Awards over his five-decade career, shaping generations of comedy and bringing joy to audiences worldwide.
