Legendary TV Director James Burrows Passes Away at 85

James Burrows, an influential director recognized for creating and directing numerous beloved sitcoms, passed away at age 85. He earned 11 Emmy Awards during a career that spanned over five decades.

“We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James ‘Jimmy’ Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family,” his family said in a statement to People.

Burrows helped shape landmark sitcoms including “Cheers,” “Taxi,” “Friends,” “Will & Grace,” and “The Big Bang Theory.”

Career Beginnings

Burrows began directing episodes of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” in 1974 and “The Bob Newhart Show” in 1975. He joined MTM, a renowned production company with alumni like James L. Brooks and Steven Bochco.

“They were smart enough to know that it’s better to have a director who can talk to actors rather than a director who can move cameras,” Burrows said in a 1995 interview with The Times.

Born in Los Angeles, Burrows later moved to New York. He studied at the High School of Music & Art, graduated from Oberlin College, and completed a graduate program at the Yale School of Drama.

Achievements in Television

Burrows co-created “Cheers,” directing 237 of its 275 episodes. He valued dialogue and characterization, often emphasizing the importance of words over visual gags.

His father, Abe Burrows, was an acclaimed playwright and director. His upbringing in radio comedies developed his ear for humor.

“I know what’s funny, and I probably know the best way to deliver the joke,” Burrows said in a 2010 interview.

Mentorship and Collaboration

Burrows bridged the gap between actors and writers, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. He took “Friends” stars on a trip to Las Vegas before directing 15 episodes and organized events like cast parties to build rapport.

Actors knew a joke succeeded when they heard Burrows giggle during filming.

“I’m the guy that wants you to walk the comic plank for me,” he stated.

Enduring Influence

Burrows directed hits within NBC’s “Must See TV” lineup of the 1990s and helmed every episode of “Will & Grace” from 1998 to 2006. For Burrows, it was the funniest show he worked on.

“It was a fairytale literally and figuratively,” he remarked in a 2016 interview.

He won his 11th Emmy as an executive producer for the 2019 re-staging of “Live in Front of a Studio Audience: ‘All in the Family’ and ‘Good Times.’”

Legacy and Tribute

Throughout his career, Burrows was drawn to sophisticated comedies. He directed successful pilots for shows like “Frasier” and “3rd Rock From the Sun.”

In 2016, he celebrated directing his 1,000th television episode with “Crowded,” which NBC commemorated with “Must See TV: An All-Star Tribute.”

Burrows was nominated for 48 Emmy Awards and 23 Directors Guild of America Awards, winning seven times, including a lifetime achievement award.

He is survived by his wife, Debbie Easton, four daughters, and seven grandchildren.