Television comedy has lost one of its most influential creators. James Burrows, the legendary director behind some of the biggest sitcoms in TV history, has died at the age of 85. His family confirmed the news in a statement to People, saying that Burrows "passed away peacefully" surrounded by his loved ones. No further details about his cause of death or the location of his passing have been made public.He left behind an extraordinary legacy that helped shape modern television comedy. Over a career spanning more than five decades, he directed and developed some of the most beloved sitcoms ever made, earning admiration from audiences, actors and industry professionals alike.James Burrows changed television comedyJames Burrows was widely regarded as one of the greatest television directors of all time. His career began in 1974 on The Mary Tyler Moore Show, but it was only the start of a remarkable journey.Over the years, he became associated with several iconic comedy series, including Taxi, Cheers, Friends, Frasier, Will & Grace, 3rd Rock from the Sun and Mike & Molly. His influence on television was immense, with many of the sitcom formats and directing styles used today carrying traces of his work.You Might Also Like:Burrows also co-created Cheers, one of the most celebrated comedy shows in television history. In addition to creating memorable series, he directed more than 50 television pilots and over 1,000 episodes during his career.His achievements were recognised with numerous honours. Burrows won 11 Emmy Awards and received 48 nominations. His first Emmy wins came in 1980 and 1981 for directing Taxi. He also earned five Directors Guild of America Awards and received the Directors Guild's prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015.The man who believed in Friends from the beginningAmong his many accomplishments, Burrows' work on Friends remains one of his most remembered contributions. He directed 15 episodes of the sitcom, including the fan-favourite episode The One with the Blackout, which earned him another Emmy nomination.In his 2022 memoir, Directed by James Burrows, the veteran director recalled immediately recognising the potential of Friends when he first read the script. He wrote that although his schedule was packed, he knew he had to direct the pilot because he instantly connected with the six young characters.You Might Also Like:Burrows also revealed that before the show premiered, he warned the cast that their lives were about to change forever. According to his memoir, he told them that once the series aired, they would lose their anonymity because the show had the potential to become a huge success. At the time, the young actors reportedly found it hard to believe.History, of course, proved him right.Friends stars remember a mentor and father figureFollowing the news of his death, several Friends stars shared emotional tributes on social media.Taking to Instagram, Matt LeBlanc described James Burrows as someone whose impact extended far beyond television. Remembering the director as an icon, he wrote, "Jimmy , words cannot describe the impact and influence you had on us and everyone who was lucky enough to have known you. You sir are a true icon on so many levels. Well wishes in your next act. You will be missed. God Bless."David Schwimmer also shared a heartfelt message, describing James Burrows as another father figure in his life. The actor praised the director's ability to bring out the best in performers and make every show funnier and more emotionally resonant.He said Burrows created an atmosphere where actors felt safe and valued, adding that his warmth, humility and generosity made cast members feel like family. He also remembered him as a loving mentor whose guidance helped shape countless careers across the television industry.Lisa Kudrow paid tribute as well, sharing a photograph with Burrows and thanking him for everything he had done throughout the years.For millions of viewers around the world, James Burrows' work provided decades of laughter. For the actors who knew him personally, he was much more than a director; he was a teacher, mentor and friend whose impact will continue to be felt across the entertainment industry for years to come.