Iconic TV Director James Burrows Dies at 85
The television industry is mourning the loss of legendary director James Burrows, who passed away this week at the age of 85. Burrows, a pivotal figure behind some of television’s most beloved sitcoms, left an indelible mark on the medium during his extensive career.
A Directorial Force Behind Sitcom Success
Burrows was a co-creator of the groundbreaking sitcom Cheers and directed numerous episodes of the immensely popular series Friends, including its very first installment. His directorial prowess also extended to every single episode of Will & Grace. Throughout his career, he amassed an impressive 11 Emmy Awards, a testament to his skill and vision.
His work also included multiple episodes of Matt LeBlanc’s recent sitcom, Man with a Plan.
Tributes Pour In from Cast and Colleagues
Matt LeBlanc, 58, shared a rare Instagram post to honor the late director. “Jimmy,” LeBlanc wrote in his tribute, “words cannot describe the impact and influence you had on us and everyone who was lucky enough to have known you. You sir are a true icon on so many levels. Well wishes in your next act. You will be missed. God Bless.”
The actor’s last Instagram upload prior to this tribute was an in memoriam post for his late Friends co-star Matthew Perry, who died in 2023.
Lisa Kudrow, 62, also paid a touching homage to Burrows. She posted a photograph of herself and Burrows on the set of her show The Comeback. The image featured a director’s chair prominently displaying his name and the word “director.” Burrows had a recurring role on the new season of The Comeback, portraying a fictionalized version of himself.
A Career Defined by Laughter and Legacy
Danny DeVito, alongside his longtime wife Rhea Perlman, expressed deep sadness over Burrows’ passing. Perlman rose to stardom on Cheers, while Burrows directed DeVito in the classic 1970s sitcom Taxi, a show that marked an early career breakthrough for both men.
“Rhea and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Jimmy Burrows,” DeVito stated. “The entire DeVito family feels the loss of such an exceptional man, and we send our love to Debbie, Jimmy’s children, and all of his loved ones. Jimmy guided Rhea and me through 16 seasons of television. He was the very best at his craft. His positive spirit, boundless energy, and tireless work defined what it takes to run a show and keep people laughing. He will always be in our hearts.””
Burrows directed a significant portion of the episodes for Taxi, which boasted a stellar cast including Tony Danza, Andy Kaufman, Judd Hirsch, Marilu Henner, Christopher Lloyd, Jeff Conaway, Randall Carver, and Carol Kane.
Tony Danza also shared his remembrance on X, writing, “We have lost the greatest of all time. Jimmy Burrows. I know I wouldn’t be here without him.” He extended his condolences to Burrows’ widow, Debbie Easton, and their four children.
