James Burrows, 'Will & Grace' director and 'Cheers' co-creator, dead at 85

James Burrows, the co-creator of 'Cheers' and a director on 'Will & Grace,' has died at 85. His family said, "We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James 'Jimmy' Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family." They noted that for more than five decades Burrows was "one of the most influential and beloved directors in television history." He directed more than 1,000 TV episodes and also created and produced several acclaimed shows like "The Mary Tyler Moore Show," "Taxi," "Frasier," "Friends" and "The Big Bang Theory." His loved ones said that beyond his remarkable achievements he will be remembered for "his kindness, generosity, and unwavering belief in the people around him," and for a rare ability to make everyone better.

He was known for remembering every person he met by name and for making colleagues at every level feel seen, valued, and appreciated.

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