James Burrows, ‘Cheers’ Co-Creator And ‘Friends’ Director, Dies At 85

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – JUNE 08: James Burrows attends a conversation David Schwimmer at The 92nd Street Y, New York on June 08, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Dominik Bindl/Getty Images)

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James Burrows, who co-created the classic sitcom Cheers and directed several episodes of “Friends,” “Fraiser” and dozens of other hit series, has died.

Burrows died in his sleep early Friday after a brief illness, according to Deadline. He was 85.

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“Jimmy was the greatest comedic television director in the history of the medium,” Burrows’ longtime agent Rick Rosen told Deadline. “He directed the most iconic, defining shows of generations. Always a gentleman, it was an absolute honor to represent him.”

In addition to Cheers, Burrows was an executive producer on such hit series as Will & Grace and Mike & Molly.

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