James Burrows, Legendary Director of 'Cheers' and 'Friends,' Dies at 85

James Burrows, the acclaimed director behind some of television's most enduring comedies, has passed away at 85. His death was confirmed with "great sadness" by his attorney, Tom Hoberman, to CBS News.

“

We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James 'Jimmy' Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family.

Burrows was a towering figure in television, best known as the co-creator of the beloved sitcom "Cheers." His directorial prowess extended to over 1,000 episodes across a remarkable roster of comedy classics, including "Friends," "The Big Bang Theory," and "Will & Grace." His career, spanning more than five decades, was decorated with 11 Emmy Awards and five Directors Guild of America Awards, cementing his status as a master of the sitcom format.

“

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.

Born in Los Angeles in 1940, Burrows developed his passion for directing during his graduate studies at the Yale School of Drama. His early work laid the foundation for a career that would shape generations of comedy. The Directors Guild of America, which honored him with a lifetime achievement award in 2015, recognized him as an "incredibly generous colleague" who shared his "wisdom, and warm humor."

“

The 800 lb gorilla of television comedy for fifty years, he was beloved by everyone, and has left not a mark but a footprint.

His family released a statement celebrating his "extraordinary life and enduring legacy," noting that he "helped shape generations of comedy and brought immeasurable joy to audiences around the world." Colleagues and actors from his many projects shared tributes, with Eric McCormack of "Will & Grace" describing Burrows as "the 800 lb gorilla of television comedy for fifty years" and noting he left "not a mark but a footprint." Lisa Kudrow and Beth Behrs also shared fond memories, highlighting his impact and mentorship.

“

Dear Jimmy, I'll never forget @katdenningsss and I becoming absolutely convinced you hated us during rehearsals for the pilot of 2 Broke Girls. We marched up to your podium like two fourth-graders called into the principal's office and asked you point-blank. I'll never forget the belly laugh. 'Oh girls, of course not.'