On June 19, TV director James Burrows passed away. The Cheers co-creator died at the age of 85. Burrows’ family said he died peacefully with his loved ones around him. The director, who worked on shows like Friends and Taxi, is survived by his second wife, Debbie Easton Burrows, four daughters, and seven grandchildren.
Before Debbie, James Burrows was married to his first wife, Linda Solomon. James and Linda tied the knot in 1981. They shared three daughters, named Katherine, Elizabeth, and Margaret. A few years later, the couple divorced in 1993. James Burrows married Debbie Easton in 1997. Debbie is a TV celebrity hairstylist.
For those unaware, Linda Solomon was a production figure who is known for Rhinoceros, The Associates, and The Iceman Cometh. After her marriage to Burrows ended, Linda Solomon kept her life private. She died in April 2004 at 56.
Family confirmed the death of James Burrows
The veteran sitcom director’s family confirmed his death in a statement to People. They celebrated Burrows’ life and career achievements for over fifty years. His family dubbed him as one of the most ‘influential’ and ‘beloved’ directors of TV history.
“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.” the statement read.
Born in 1940, James was the son of the famous writer and composer, Abe Burrows. The late director started his career with the Broadway play, The Castro Complex. Soon, James was hired to direct episodes of shows like The Bob Newhart Show and Mary Tyler Moore. Further, he rose to fame with shows like Rhoda, Phyllis, and Laverne & Shirley.
James also worked as a director for several episodes of sitcoms like The Hogan Family, Cheers, Dear John, Taxi, Friends, Frasier, and Night Court.
He bagged multiple Emmy Awards and Directors Guild of America Awards in his career.
As of this writing, James Burrows’ cause of death remains unknown.
Edited by Shatakshi Gupta