“We Lost a Giant”: James Burrows Mourned by Eric McCormack, Tony Danza and More
“We Lost a Giant”: Hollywood Mourns James Burrows
The prolific television director James Burrows, an 11-time Emmy winner, passed away on Friday at the age of 85. Known for shaping the look and feel of iconic sitcoms, Burrows directed over 75 pilots and more than 1,000 episodes. His death prompted an outpouring of tributes from actors whose careers he helped define.
Eric McCormack, star of Will & Grace, called Burrows “a giant” and credited him with creating the show’s distinctive tone. Tony Danza, who worked with Burrows on Taxi, remembered him as “the best there ever was.” Other notable figures including Ted Danson, Kelsey Grammer, and Jennifer Aniston also shared heartfelt statements.
Burrows was the son of legendary writer-director Abe Burrows. His own directing credits include:
- Cheers (multiple Emmy wins)
- Friends (directed the pilot)
- The Big Bang Theory
- Frasier
- 2 Broke Girls
Industry peers highlighted his unmatched ability to balance comedy with emotional depth. John Lithgow described him as “the quiet genius of American television.” Burrows’ legacy endures through the countless laughs he orchestrated and the generations of comedic talent he mentored. He is survived by his wife and two children.