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James Burrows, director of 'Cheers' and 'Friends,' dies at 85
By AP via Scripps News Group at KXXV (ABC 25) News
· June 19, 2026
· 5 min read
James Burrows, who helped create volumes of laughter as director of more than a thousand episodes of such classic television comedies as Cheers, Taxi," Friends and Will and Grace, died Friday. He was 85.His family confirmed his death in a statement to People, saying he passed away peacefully toda...
Key takeaway Burrows got his start in television relatively late at age 35 in 1974, directing episodes of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, The Bob Newhart Show, and Laverne & Shirley.
Why this matters in The Waco
While James Burrows' passing may seem like a distant Hollywood event, his impact on the entertainment industry has a ripple effect on local communities like Waco . As a city with a thriving arts scene, Waco residents can appreciate the value of talented directors and producers who bring laughter and joy to audiences. Burrows' legacy serves as a reminder that behind every successful TV show, there are dedicated individuals working tirelessly to create memorable moments. In Waco, this translates to the numerous community theater productions, film festivals, and local arts initiatives that rely on talented directors and producers to bring stories to life. As the city continues to grow and support its arts community, it's essential to recognize the contributions of visionaries like Burrows, who have inspired generations of artists and entertainers, including those in Waco. His passing is a loss, but his body of work will continue to inspire local artists and entertainers.
About this story
Original reporting by KXXV (ABC 25) News . The Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KXXV (ABC 25) News . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 19, 2026 ·
Source: KXXV (ABC 25) News ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? James Burrows, who helped create volumes of laughter as director of more than a thousand episodes of such classic television comedies as Cheers, Taxi," Friends and Will and Grace, died Friday. He was 85.His family confirmed his death in a statement to People, saying he passed away peacefully toda...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 19, 2026 by KXXV (ABC 25) News and curated for The Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by AP via Scripps News Group at KXXV (ABC 25) News. To learn more about how The Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from The Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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