‘Taxi’ Star Tony Danza Pays Tribute to Director James Burrows: ‘We Have Lost the Greatest of All Time’

James Burrows, a celebrated television director, died on Friday at the age of 85. Tony Danza, who collaborated with Burrows on 75 episodes of the ABC sitcom "Taxi," shared his grief on X, stating, "We have lost the greatest of all time. Jimmy Burrows." Burrows was a prolific director known for his work on numerous iconic sitcoms, including "Cheers," "Frasier," "Friends," and "Will & Grace." His career spanned over five decades, during which he directed more than 1,000 episodes of television and earned 11 Emmy Awards. He was also nominated for an additional 14 Emmy Awards, highlighting his consistent excellence in the field. Burrows' directorial style was often praised for its ability to elicit natural performances from actors and to masterfully stage complex comedic scenes. His contributions significantly shaped the landscape of American television comedy, making him a revered figure among actors, writers, and producers in the industry. The news of his passing has prompted widespread tributes from actors and creators who benefited from his talent and mentorship.