Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc and more pay tribute to James Burrows as 'Friends' director dies at 85
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Tributes have poured in from actors, directors, and longtime collaborators following the death of legendary television director James Burrows, who was best known for shaping some of television’s most successful sitcoms.
He was remembered for his creative vision, mentorship, and ability to bring comedy to life, with colleagues from across his decades-long career reflecting on the profound impact he had on the industry and the people who worked alongside him.
Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Tony Danza, and Danny DeVito remember James Burrows
One of Burrows’ earliest and most celebrated projects was 'Taxi,' the hit comedy series that ran from 1978 to 1983. He directed 75 episodes of the show, including its pilot, helping launch the careers of several cast members.
Actor and retired professional boxer Danza paid tribute to the late director, saying, “We have lost the greatest of all time. I know I wouldn't be here without him. My thoughts are with Debbie and the kids.”
DeVito also honored him in a statement shared on behalf of himself and his wife, Rhea Perlman. “Rhea and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Jimmy Burrows. The entire DeVito family feels the loss of such an exceptional man, and we send our love to Debbie, Jimmy’s children, and all of his loved ones."
He continued, "Jimmy guided Rhea and me through 16 seasons of television. He was the very best at his craft. His positive spirit, boundless energy, and tireless work defined what it takes to run a show and keep people laughing. He will always be in our hearts.”
Burrows also maintained strong relationships with the cast of 'Friends.' Kudrow shared a photograph of herself with him from the set of 'The Comeback,' another project they collaborated on, where he also appeared as a fictionalized version of himself, including during its 2026 revival.
LeBlanc, whose 'Friends' journey began with Burrows directing the show's pilot episode, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram, “Jimmy, words cannot describe the impact and influence you had on us and everyone who was lucky enough to have known you. You sir, are a true icon on so many levels. Well wishes in your next act. You will be missed. God Bless.”
Alyssa Milano, Beth Behrs, and Christopher Nolan reflect on James Burrows’ legacy
Milano, who worked with him on 'Romantically Challenged' in 2010, described the experience as “an absolute gift.” She wrote, “He knew exactly what a scene needed, exactly where the joke lived, and exactly how to create an environment where actors could do their best work."
She continued, "He made it all look effortless, though anyone who has ever stepped onto one of his sets knows that it is anything but. As an actor, you spend your career hoping to learn from the best. I was fortunate enough to learn from a legend.”
'2 Broke Girls' star Beth Behrs shared a lengthy remembrance of her time working with Burrows. She recalled being nervous during early rehearsals before discovering his supportive and encouraging nature.
She also remembered actress Jennifer Aniston telling her after the pilot episode, “Oh, you have Jimmy? You'll get a pickup.” According to her, that confidence reflected his reputation in the industry. Her co-star Kat Dennings added a brief but personal tribute, writing, “I'll always remember the frozen yogurt.”
Filmmaker Christopher Nolan also paid tribute on behalf of the Directors Guild of America, describing him as “the modern master of the sophisticated comedy and a beloved member of the DGA.” He added that Burrows set the standard for comedy direction over decades of groundbreaking television and was “truly incomparable and will be profoundly missed.”
