Celebrity
Beloved Television Icon James Burrows Dead at 85
James Burrows, beloved TV icon and ‘Cheers’ co-creator, has died at 85. He directed hit shows including ‘Friends,’ ‘Frasier,’ and ‘Will and Grace’ over his lengthy career.
Beloved television icon James Burrows is dead at the age of 85. Burrows was the co-creator of the series Cheers, and over the course of his decades-long career, he played a role in other hit series such as The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Bob Newhart Show, Friends, Frasier, Taxi, and Will and Grace.
People shared a statement from Burrows’ family on June 19. “We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James ‘Jimmy’ Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family.”
The statement continued, “For more than five decades, Burrows was one of the most influential and beloved directors in television history.”
The family’s statement did not include details regarding Burrows’ cause of death.
Burrows’ career began in the mid-70s, and he continued working into 2025. Over the course of his lengthy career, Burrows accrued more than 140 director credits and was involved in some of television’s biggest hits.
As much as Burrows was treasured as a professional leader and colleague, the family added that he “will be remembered for something even greater: his kindness, generosity, and unwavering belief in the people around him.”
They praised his ability to remember everybody he met and have a positive impact on everyone he encountered. “His influence will continue to be felt for generations through the countless artists he inspired, the stories he helped tell, and the millions of people who were brightened by his work,” the statement praised.
Burrows leaves behind his wife, Debbie Easton, and three children, whom he had with his previous wife, Linda Solomon.
