James Burrows, Titan of TV Sitcoms, Dies at 85
James Burrows, the prolific TV director behind Cheers, the Friends pilot, and Will & Grace, has died at 85. A driving force of American sitcoms for decades, he directed over 1,000 episodes, co-created Cheers, and earned 11 Emmy Awards along with multiple Directors Guild honors. Tributes poured in from stars like Jennifer Aniston and Debra Messing, who praised his kindness and mentorship. He is survived by his wife Debbie, four daughters, and seven grandchildren.