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'Friends' cast mourns passing of director James Burrows
James Burrows, who directed the "Friends" pilot and many other episodes, passed away. He was 85.
His family confirmed his death in an exclusive statement sent to People on June 19.
"We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James 'Jimmy' Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family," the statement read.
"Over the course of his unparalleled career, Burrows directed more than 1,000 episodes of television and was instrumental in creating some of the most iconic series ever produced, including 'The Mary Tyler Moore Show,' 'Taxi,' 'Cheers,' 'Frasier,' 'Friends,' 'Will & Grace,' and 'The Big Bang Theory,' among many others," the statement added.
On Instagram, the cast of "Friends" paid tribute to the legendary director, remembering his impact both on and off the set.
Jennifer Aniston reflected on Burrows' fatherly presence throughout her career, recalling how he affectionately referred to the cast of "Friends" as "the kids."
"He was a father figure to me," Jennifer wrote, adding that he always checked in on her and guided her through both "the hardest times and the best of times."
"Most of all, he taught us—the kids—how important it is to love and respect one another," she wrote. "To take care of each other. To have each other's backs and support each other, no matter what."
Meanwhile, Matt LeBlanc described James as someone whose influence extended far beyond the set.
"Jimmy, words cannot describe the impact and influence you had on us and everyone lucky enough to have known you," he said.
"You, sir, are a true icon on so many levels," he added. "Well wishes in your next act. You will be missed. God Bless."
David Schwimmer then praised James' ability to elevate every project he worked on.
"His warmth, humility and generosity made us feel safe, like family, and I'm sure we weren't the only cast to feel that way," he said. "He looked out for us, on camera and off."
"Thousands of writers, actors, producers, crew members, and network execs are forever blessed to have been on a sound stage with him, watching him work and learning from his incomparable talent," he added.
Courteney Cox recalled Jimmy's trademark nickname for her, Cox-N-Hammer, and his habit of calling the cast "the kids."
"I would beg him to make more time to direct us, but so did all of his other shows, because everything was better when he was around," she wrote. "You felt safe and confident, and man, what a blast we had!"
"I'm not sure how someone with that much talent, wisdom, and adoration could be so egoless," she added. "Making anything the best it could be was all that mattered to Jimmy."
"Friends" ran for 10 seasons from 1994 to 2004. It followed six New Yorkers getting into hilarious situations. The friends were always there for each other in life and love.
Aside from Jennifer, Matt, David, and Courteney, it also starred Lisa Kudrow and the late Matthew Perry. —Hermes Joy Tunac/MGP, GMA News
