Actor Jon Cryer has offered a heartfelt recollection of his professional relationship with the late James Burrows, the celebrated director and co-creator of the classic American sitcom 'Cheers', who passed away on Friday at the age of 85. Burrows' career spanned over five decades, shaping the landscape of television comedy with his distinctive directorial style and keen comedic timing.
Cryer, known for his roles in 'Two and a Half Men', worked with Burrows on the 1995 sitcom 'Partners', where Burrows directed ten episodes. Recalling a particular incident, Cryer described a challenging moment during production when the third act of an episode needed an immediate, complete rewrite and restaging in front of a live audience. Amidst the pressure, Burrows instructed Cryer to 'do a Newhart', a shorthand reference to the beloved perplexed stutters characteristic of comedian Bob Newhart. Cryer recognised this as a profound moment of trust from a master of the genre, affirming Burrows' instinct was correct.
The family of James Burrows confirmed his peaceful passing, surrounded by loved ones, and released a statement celebrating his extraordinary life and enduring legacy. They highlighted his role as a legendary director, mentor, and creative force who brought immense joy to audiences globally. Burrows' impressive résumé includes directing every single episode of 'Will & Grace', numerous instalments of 'Friends' and 'Frasier', and, crucially, co-creating the enduringly popular 'Cheers', which remains a benchmark for sitcom writing and performance.
Tributes have flooded in from across the entertainment industry, reflecting the deep respect and affection held for Burrows. Ted Danson, who starred in 'Cheers', described Burrows as his 'show business father, mentor, and friend', crediting him with teaching him the nuances of comedy for 11 years. Similarly, Eric McCormack of 'Will & Grace' shared on Instagram that Burrows was a 'giant', a mentor, and a dear friend, acknowledging his incredible legacy and profound footprint on television comedy.
Many of Burrows' iconic works are widely available for UK audiences. 'Cheers' and 'Frasier' can be streamed on Paramount+, while 'Friends' is available on Netflix. 'Will & Grace' can be found on Sky Go and NOW. His contributions to these shows have earned him numerous accolades, including 11 Emmy Awards, solidifying his status as one of the most influential figures in television history.