James Burrows, the Emmy-winning television director and co-creator of Cheers whose work helped define modern sitcoms, has died aged 85.
His family confirmed his death in a statement to People, saying he “passed away peacefully today surrounded by his family.” No location or cause of death was provided. Attorney Tom Hoberman confirmed the news “with great sadness” to CBS News.
A Career That Defined Television Comedy
Burrows spent more than five decades behind the camera, directing over 1,000 episodes of television comedies including Cheers, Taxi, Friends, Frasier, Will & Grace, and The Big Bang Theory.
He co-created Cheers alongside brothers Glen and Les Charles and directed 237 episodes of the sitcom. He also directed all 246 episodes of the original run of Will & Grace and remained closely involved with the revival.
Burrows directed 15 episodes of Friends, including the pilot episode that helped launch the series in 1994, a role that proved instrumental in establishing the show’s tone and chemistry from the very first scene.
Across his career, Burrows won 11 Emmy Awards and five Directors Guild of America Awards.
Burrows was widely praised for helping refine the modern multi-camera sitcom format and for his remarkable ability to direct large ensemble casts and draw out natural, consistent performances.
Early Life
Born in Los Angeles in 1940, Burrows spent much of his childhood in New York. As a young adult, he attended the graduate programme at the Yale School of Drama, where he gained his first experience as a director.
He got his start in television relatively late, at age 35, directing episodes of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Bob Newhart Show, and Laverne & Shirley.
Tributes
His longtime agent Rick Rosen said: “Jimmy was the greatest comedic television director in the history of the medium. He directed the most iconic, defining shows of generations.”
Actors Rhea Perlman and Danny DeVito said in a joint statement: “Jimmy guided Rhea and me through 16 seasons of television. He was the very best at his craft. His positive spirit, boundless energy and tireless work defined what it takes to run a show and keep people laughing.”
His family added: “For more than five decades, Burrows was one of the most influential and beloved directors in television history.”
Frequently Asked Questions
When did James Burrows die?
James Burrows died on Friday, June 19, 2026. He was 85 years old. His family confirmed he passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loved ones.
What shows did James Burrows direct?
Burrows directed over 1,000 television episodes across Cheers, Friends, Taxi, Frasier, Will & Grace, The Big Bang Theory, and Two and a Half Men, among many others.
Did James Burrows create Cheers?
Yes. Burrows co-created Cheers alongside brothers Glen and Les Charles and directed 237 episodes of the sitcom.
Did James Burrows direct Friends?
Yes. Burrows directed 15 episodes of Friends, including the pilot episode that helped launch the series in 1994.
How many Emmy Awards did James Burrows win?
James Burrows won 11 Primetime Emmy Awards across his career, along with five Directors Guild of America Awards.
Sources
- BBC — James Burrows, legendary director of Cheers and Friends, dies aged 85
- Variety — James Burrows, Cheers Co-Creator and Prolific TV Director, Dies at 85
- Deadline — James Burrows Dies: Legendary TV Comedy Director, 85
- NPR — James Burrows, director of Cheers and Friends, dies at 85
- People — Family statement, June 19, 2026
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