
FILE – James Burrows arrives at The Television Academy presents an evening honoring James Burrows held at Academy of Television Arts & Sciences on October 7, 2013 in North Hollywood, California. (Photo by Michael Tran/FilmMagic)
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LOS ANGELES – James Burrows, the co-creator of the wildly popular TV sitcom, “Cheers,” and director of many beloved shows such as “Will and Grace,” has died.
He was 85 years old.
What they’re saying:
“We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James ‘Jimmy’ Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family,” the Burrows family shared in a statement to People on June 19. “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.”
Burrows passed away after a brief illness, Deadline reported.
Dig deeper:
Burrows amassed dozens of Emmy nominations and was given a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015 for his many contributions to iconic series and TV movies.
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He spent his career behind the camera specializing in situation comedies. Few viewers recognized him or knew his name, other than to see it flash quickly on the screen in the opening credits. But they knew his work.
Some of the projects he’s worked on included:
- “The Big Bang Theory”
- “Friends”
- “Fraiser”
- “Cheers”
- “The Mary Tyler Moore Show”
- “Laverne & Shirley
- “Night Court”
- “Taxi”
- “Wings”
Burrows is survived by his wife, Debbi, four daughters, and his seven grandchildren.
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