James Burrows, Legendary Television Director Behind 'Cheers' and 'Will & Grace,' Dies at 85

Legendary television director James Burrows has died at age 85. The acclaimed director passed away peacefully on Friday, June 19, surrounded by family members.

Burrows stands as one of television's most influential figures, having left an indelible mark on the medium through his work on some of its most celebrated sitcoms. He co-created the cultural phenomenon Cheers and helmed every episode of the original run of Will & Grace. His directorial portfolio also encompasses Friends, Frasier, Taxi, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Big Bang Theory, and numerous other comedy classics, accumulating more than 1,000 directing credits across his five-decade career.

His family released a statement celebrating his life and contributions to entertainment. "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."

Burrows' accolades throughout his career included 11 Emmy Award wins and numerous additional nominations. Most recently, he appeared as himself in HBO's The Comeback, where he directed an AI-written episode featuring Lisa Kudrow's character Valerie Cherish during the show's third season.

Beyond his technical achievements, the family emphasized his character and impact on those around him. "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."

The statement also reflected on his artistic philosophy: "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. His influence will continue to be felt for generations through the countless artists he inspired, the stories he helped tell, and the millions of people whose lives were brightened by his work."

Burrows is survived by his wife Debbie, four daughters, and seven grandchildren. He was also previously married to Linda Solomon.

"Above all else, Burrows was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather," his family said. "He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. Our thoughts are with Debbie, his children and grandchildren, his family, friends, collaborators, and all those whose lives he touched. May his memory be a blessing."