James Burrows, a legendary television director and co-creator of the iconic sitcom “Cheers,” passed away at the age of 85. Known for his significant impact on television comedy, Burrows directed and helped shape numerous beloved sitcoms including “Taxi,” “Friends,” “Will & Grace,” and “The Big Bang Theory.”

His family released a statement expressing their love and pride for Burrows, highlighting his influence in the world of television. For over fifty years, Burrows was a key figure, renowned for his comedic direction and mentorship, bringing immense joy to audiences worldwide.

Early Career and Influence

Burrows began his career in 1974, directing episodes of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show” and “The Bob Newhart Show.” He worked with MTM, a production company that fostered many talented creators such as James L. Brooks and Steven Bochco. Burrows emphasized the importance of communication with actors over technical camera skills, suggesting it is the words that matter most in comedy.

Born in Los Angeles, Burrows moved to New York where he attended the High School of Music & Art. He graduated from Oberlin College and furthered his studies at Yale School of Drama. His early work included stage management alongside his father, Abe Burrows. Abe was known for his radio comedies and Broadway musicals, which shaped James’ understanding of humor and timing.

Creating Iconic Sitcoms

James Burrows made a significant mark with “Cheers,” co-creating the Boston bar setting with Glen and Les Charles. He directed 237 out of 275 episodes, reinforcing his legacy as a masterful comedy director. Burrows prioritized words over antics, focusing on dialogue’s power to entertain.

His upbringing in a comedic environment honed his innate sense for humor. Burrows was known for fostering camaraderie among cast members, believing that strong relationships enhanced on-screen performances. On “Friends,” he famously took the cast to Las Vegas to build connections before directing 15 episodes of the series.

An Array of Successful Shows

Burrows directed the hit series “Will & Grace” from 1998 to 2006, declaring it the funniest show he worked on. The sitcom’s revival in 2017 saw Burrows return to direct, continuing the show’s legacy. Throughout his career, Burrows experienced some failures too, like “Cafe Americain,” but his accomplishments far outweighed them.

Though attempted cinema with “Partners” in 1981, Burrows found his strength in television. His preference for sophisticated comedy led him to direct numerous notable pilots, which shaped network lineups for years.

Legacy and Honors

Burrows’ career spanned decades, impacting television history profoundly. His work earned him 48 Emmy nominations and 23 Directors Guild of America nominations, winning seven. He was honored by the Television Academy in 2013 and celebrated directing his 1,000th episode in 2016.

James Burrows is survived by his wife, Debbie Easton, four daughters, and seven grandchildren. His contributions to comedy and television direction are celebrated and remembered fondly by both the industry and audiences alike.