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James Burrows, a towering figure in television comedy and co-creator of Cheers, passed away Friday at the age of 85 following a brief illness. His death prompted heartfelt tributes from actors and colleagues who praised his extraordinary influence on multi-camera sitcoms and the careers of countless performers.
Lisa Kudrow, who collaborated with Burrows on Friends and later The Comeback, shared a touching behind-the-scenes photo on Instagram, thanking him simply, “Thank you Jimmy. I mean, for everything…” Ted Danson, who portrayed Sam Malone on Cheers, reflected on Burrows’s role as both mentor and guiding light throughout his career.
“Jimmy was my show business father, my mentor, and my friend. For 11 years, his laughter taught me what was funny and what was not.
Nothing made me happier than making him laugh. I can only imagine thousands of actors feel the same way,” Danson said.
He added that both he and his wife Mary send their love to Burrows’s family, affirming that Burrows will remain forever in their hearts and “funny bones.”
Danny DeVito and Rhea Perlman, who worked with Burrows on Taxi and Cheers respectively, also expressed their sorrow. “Rhea and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Jimmy Burrows.
Our entire family feels the loss of such an exceptional man, and we send love to Debbie, Jimmy’s children, and all his loved ones,” they said. They praised Burrows’s unmatched skill, boundless energy, and positive spirit that sustained long-running shows and kept audiences laughing for decades.
Burrows’s impact on Will & Grace was likewise honored by its cast. Scott Icenogle, husband of Sean Hayes, shared a message from the couple remembering Burrows, who directed and executive produced every episode of the groundbreaking NBC comedy.
“The world lost a cultural, television icon today,” Icenogle wrote. “Sean and I send Debbie and the entire family all our love and support during this difficult time.”
Eric McCormack called Burrows “a giant, a mentor, and a dear friend,” describing him as the “800-pound gorilla of television comedy” whose legacy leaves an indelible footprint. “Jimmy, thank you for everything you gave us. I love you,” McCormack wrote.
Debra Messing, another Will & Grace star, described Burrows as “a legend, an icon, a singular talent and revolutionary in television.” She recalled how he brought laughter and love into homes worldwide and shared a personal note about how he was “Jimmy” to her and “Papa Jimmy” to her son. “Jimmy changed my life 28 years ago and has been in it ever since,” she said, remembering his dry humor and infectious laughter when comic moments landed perfectly.
Kat Dennings, who worked with Burrows on 2 Broke Girls, posted a succinct tribute: “RIP to a real one.” Co-star Beth Behrs added a humorous memory from the show’s pilot rehearsals, recalling how she and Dennings nervously confronted Burrows, suspecting he disliked them – only for him to respond with a hearty laugh and reassurance.
Across generations and genres, James Burrows was celebrated not just for his directing mastery but for the warmth, mentorship, and joy he brought to the television comedy world. His influence will be felt for many years to come.