Cheers co-creator James Burrows dies aged 85 as Friends and Frasier stars lead tributes

James Burrows, who co-created Cheers and directed more than 1,000 episodes of television, has died ‘peacefully’ surrounded by his family at the age of 85

One of television comedy’s undisputed legends has died at the age of 85. Acclaimed director James Burrows, who co-created Cheers and helped deliver the likes of Friends, Frasier and Will and Grace to millions of viewers across the globe, has passed away.

A statement released by the Burrows family this evening said: “We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James ‘Jimmy’ Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family.

“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.”

The tribute, which was shared with People, went on: “Over the course of his unparalleled career, Burrows directed more than 1,000 episodes of television and was instrumental in creating some of the most iconic series ever produced, including The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Taxi, Cheers, Frasier, Friends, Will and Grace, and The Big Bang Theory, among many others.

“But beyond his remarkable achievements, Burrows will be remembered for something even greater: his kindness, generosity, and unwavering belief in the people around him,” reports the Mirror.

“He possessed a rare ability to make everyone better and was known for remembering every person he met by name, making colleagues at every level feel seen, valued, and appreciated.”

Burrows co-created Cheers alongside brothers Les and Glen Charles, with the show first hitting screens in 1982 and running for a whopping 275 episodes – nearly all of them helmed by James – with the sitcom still regularly broadcast today.

He later contributed to Frasier, the Cheers spin-off that catapulted Kelsey Grammar to even greater stardom.

Burrows, who has bagged 11 Primetime Emmy Awards and five Directors Guild of America Awards, also directed 15 episodes of Friends.

He made an appearance as a director of the film Joey lands a role in for the Friends episode The One With the Butt and features as a version of himself in Lisa Kudrow’s comedy The Comeback.

Burrows, who was wed to hairstylist Debbie Easton, also leaves behind three daughters and one stepdaughter.