James Burrows, co-creator of “Cheers” and prolific director, dies at 85

James Burrows, the co-creator of “Cheers” and prolific television director who worked on hits including “Will & Grace,” “Frasier” and “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” has died. He was 85 years old. 

Attorney Tom Hoberman confirmed Burrows’ death, “with great sadness.” 

Burrows directed more than 1,000 episodes of TV, including every episode of the original “Will & Grace,” and is credited as having helped create shows including “Friends,” “Taxi” and Frasier.” 

Burrows was an 11-time Emmy Award winner. His most recent win was in 2020, when he was awarded the Emmy Award for Outstanding Variety Special (Live). 

This is a developing story and will be updated.