Friends and Cheers legend James Burrows dies aged 85

He was instrumental is countless iconic sitcoms

Burrows co-created the famous sitcom Cheers and also directed Will & Grace as well as 15 epsiodes of friends, including the very first one.

His long career also saw him direct on shows such as The Big Bang Theory, Frasier and 3rd Rock from the Sun. 

Burrows won 11 Emmy Awards across his decades-long career.

The director was known for his ability to direct successful pilots and work with less experienced actor like the cast of Friends at the very start.

Jennifer Aniston and James Burrows at the Friends reunion in 2021. Credit: Instagram.

He is widely credited for the four-camera setup, a development on the three-camera setup.

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."

The statement continued: "Over the course of his unparalleled career, Burrows directed more than 1,000 episodes of television and was instrumental in creating some of the most iconic series ever produced, including The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Taxi, Cheers, Frasier, Friends, Will & Grace, and The Big Bang Theory, among many others."

His 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."

Born in Los Angeles, he was the son of writer-director Abe Burrows, who worked for radio comedies at the time of his birth.

After moving to New York, his father was the creator of many Broadway classics including Guys and Dolls, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying and Can Can.