Legendary TV director James Burrows dies at 85
What's the story
James Burrows, the legendary director behind some of America's most beloved sitcoms, has died at the age of 85. Best known for co-creating Cheers, Burrows directed over 1,000 episodes of other TV comedy classics such as F.R.I.E.N.D.S and The Big Bang Theory. His death was confirmed by attorney Tom Hoberman to CBS News on Saturday. The cause of death has not been disclosed yet.
Tributes
His family and Hollywood actors paid tribute
Burrows's family said in a heartfelt statement, "We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James 'Jimmy' Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family." Actor Eric McCormack, who starred in Will and Grace, remembered Burrows as "a mentor and a dear friend." Meanwhile, actor Lisa Kudrow wrote on Instagram: "Thank you Jimmy. I mean, for everything. I love you." Actor Ted Danson remembered him as his "business father, mentor, and friend."
Biography
Early life and career beginnings
Born in Los Angeles in 1940, Burrows spent most of his childhood in New York. He later studied at the Yale School of Drama's graduate program, where he first experienced directing. After several years behind the scenes, he co-created Cheers with Glen and Les Charles. The project quickly became a hit in both the US and UK during the 1980s.
Achievements
Burrows's legacy in Hollywood
The Directors Guild of America, which honored Burrows with a lifetime achievement award in television direction in 2015, remembered him as "an incredibly generous colleague." He was also nominated 48 times for a Primetime Emmy throughout his Hollywood career, winning 11. His family added that he "helped shape generations of comedy and brought immeasurable joy to audiences around the world."