'Cheers' Co-Creator James Burrows Dies at 85
James Burrows, Cheers co-creator and Will & Grace director, has died at the age of 85.
Burrows' family confirmed his death in a statement to People, which read, "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," the statement continued. "As a legendary director, mentor, and creative force, he helped shape generations of comedy and brought immeasurable joy to audiences around the world."
Burrows' decades-long television career began when he directed four episodes of The Mary Tyler Moore Show between 1974 and 1976. He went on to direct more than 70 episodes of Taxi, which was produced by brothers Glen and Les Charles, former Mary Tyler Moore employees.
Burrows won his first two Emmy Awards for his work on Taxi. Seeking greater creative control over their next project, the trio went on to co-create Cheers in 1982. Burrows ultimately directed all but 35 of the show's 275 episodes during its 11-season run from 1982 to 1993, earning six Emmy Awards for the series.
Burrows directed over 50 television pilots throughout his career, and also directed every episode of Will & Grace during its original run. He's also known for working on iconic shows like Frasier, Friends, and 3rd Rock from the Sun, and in 2006, he was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame.
"But beyond his remarkable achievements, Burrows will be remembered for something even greater: his kindness, generosity, and unwavering belief in the people around him," the statement continued. "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 understood that great comedy was never simply about laughter. It was about humanity, connection, and truth. That understanding became the foundation of a career that forever changed television," his family added. "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 whose lives were brightened by his work."
The statement concluded, "Above all else, Burrows was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He is survived by his beloved wife, Debbie, his four daughters, and his seven grandchildren. He will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. Our thoughts are with Debbie, his children and grandchildren, his family, friends, collaborators, and all those whose lives he touched. May his memory be a blessing."
Burrows married Linda Solomon in 1981. The pair share three daughters and divorced in 1993. In 1997, he married Debbie Easton and became a stepfather to her daughter from a previous relationship.
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This story was originally published June 19, 2026 at 12:12 PM.