'Taxi' star Tony Danza mourns the demise of director James Burrows
Los Angeles, June 20
Tributes have been pouring in for veteran filmmaker James Burrows, who breathed his last on Friday at the age of 85.
Tony Danza, who worked with Burrows on 75 episodes of the ABC comedy series "Taxi," paid his heartfelt condolences via a post on X.
"We have lost the greatest of all time. Jimmy Burrows. I know I wouldn't be here without him. My thoughts are with Debbie and the kids," Tony wrote.
Josh Gad, who starred in the short-lived, Burrows-directed sitcom "Back To You" in 2007, shared his remembrance on Instagram.
He wrote," In 2005, I had the honor of being directed by the man who made me fall in love with sitcoms as a child, Jimmy Burrows. Whether it was 'Taxi,' 'Cheers,' 'Frasier' or 'Friends.' Working every day for one season on 'Back to You' opposite Jimmy was a masterclass in comedy. At 85, he was still far too young and still so full of life. My love and prayers go out to his entire family and to all of his friends. This is a seismic loss."
The news of Burrows' demise was confirmed by his family.
In a statement to People magazine, the family 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."
Burrows, who was nominated for a record 22 Directors Guild Awards, was best known for co-creating the beloved, early-'80s bar comedy "Cheers," along with brothers Glen and Les Charles. The 11-time Emmy winner also had a 15-episode stint on "Friends" and directed every episode of "Will & Grace," as per Variety.
— ANI
Reader Comments
It's touching to see Tony Danza and Josh Gad remember him so fondly. Burrows truly shaped TV comedy. I wonder if Indian audiences, especially those who grew up on dubbed reruns, appreciate his impact as much. This is a global loss.
Many of us in India watched 'Friends' on Star World and never knew the director behind those perfect laughs. Burrows was a gentle giant of comedy. My deepest condolences to his family. 😢
As an American who lived in India for a while, I saw how 'Friends' transcended borders. Burrows' directing made that possible. He was a master of timing and heart. Rest well, Jimmy.
What a life well-lived - five decades of making people laugh. His legacy will live on through every episode of 'Cheers' and 'Friends' that new generations discover on OTT. A true craftsman. 🌹
Sad to hear this. I grew up watching 'Will & Grace' on VHS tapes my cousin brought from the US. Burrows made every scene feel effortless. While the West mourns, we in India also feel this loss. Rest in power.
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