James Burrows, the legendary television director and co-creator of Cheers, has died at the age of 85, his family confirmed. Burrows, who also directed all 188 episodes of Will & Grace from 1998 to 2006, was a towering figure in the sitcom world.
A Career Spanning Decades
Burrows' career included work on iconic shows such as Friends, Frasier, and Taxi. He won 11 Emmy Awards, including back-to-back wins in 1980 and 1981 for Taxi. He was renowned for his ability to work with inexperienced actors and direct successful pilots, notably the pilot of Friends.
Innovations in Sitcom Filming
Burrows is credited with introducing the four-camera setup to sitcoms, replacing the traditional three-camera approach. This innovation became a standard in television comedy.
Family Statement
In a statement to People, his family said: “We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James ‘Jimmy’ Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family. For more than five decades, Burrows was one of the most influential and beloved directors in television history. As a legendary director, mentor, and creative force, he helped shape generations of comedy and brought immeasurable joy to audiences around the world.”
Co-Creator of Cheers
Burrows co-created the NBC hit Cheers alongside Glen and Les Charles. He directed a total of 246 episodes of Will & Grace, including the revival.
A Legacy of Kindness
The family added: “But beyond his remarkable achievements, Burrows will be remembered for something even greater: his kindness, generosity, and unwavering belief in the people around him. He possessed a rare ability to make everyone better and was known for remembering every person he met by name, making colleagues at every level feel seen, valued, and appreciated. Burrows understood that great comedy was never simply about laughter. It was about humanity, connection, and truth. That understanding became the foundation of a career that forever changed television.”
