Legendary TV Director James Burrows Dies at 85

Emmy-winning television director James Burrows has died at the age of 85.

His family confirmed his death on Friday.

Burrows was widely regarded as one of the most influential directors in American television comedy. Along with co-creating the landmark sitcom “Cheers,” he directed more than 1,000 episodes of television across a career that spanned five decades.

His extensive body of work includes directing episodes of “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “Taxi,” “Will & Grace,” “Friends,” and “The Big Bang Theory.” Many of these series helped define modern network sitcom storytelling and ensemble comedy direction.

Over the course of his career, Burrows received 47 Emmy nominations and won 11 Emmy Awards, making him one of the most decorated directors in television history.

He is remembered as a foundational figure in shaping the rhythm, style, and visual language of contemporary sitcoms.