James Burrows, legendary director of Cheers and Friends, dies aged 85

James Burrows, legendary director of some of America's most-loved sitcoms, has died aged 85. Best-known as co-creator of the sitcom Cheers, Burrows directed more than 1,000 episodes of other TV comedy classics including Friends, Big Bang Theory, and Will and Grace. Attorney Tom Hoberman confirmed Burrows' death "with great sadness" to CBS News, the BBC's US partner. In a career spanning more than 50 years, Burrows won 11 Emmy Awards and five Directors Guild of America Awards. In a statement shared with US outlet People, 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. "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."Born in Los Angeles in 1940, Burrows spent much of his childhood in New York. As a young adult, he attended the graduate programme of the Yale School of Drama, where he got his first experience of directing.