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

Best-known as co-creator of sitcom Cheers, Burrows directed more than 1,000 episodes of other classics including the Big Bang Theory and Will and Grace.

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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.