Matt LeBlanc made a rare return to social media this week to honor legendary television director James Burrows following his death aged 85. The beloved director, whose career spanned some of television’s most iconic sitcoms, helped shape “Friends,” “Cheers,” “Will & Grace,” “Frasier,” “The Big Bang Theory” and many other hit series. For Matt LeBlanc, James Burrows’ death marked only the second time in years that the actor has shared a personal post on Instagram.
LeBlanc took to Instagram on Friday to remember the TV icon, who directed the pilot episode of Friends and several additional episodes throughout the show’s run.
“Jimmy,” LeBlanc began. “Words cannot describe the impact and influence you had on us and everyone who was lucky enough to know you.”
The actor continued, “You sir are a true icon on so many levels. Best wishes on your next act. You will be missed. God bless you.”
The tribute was particularly notable given how infrequently LeBlanc posts on social media. Outside of a promotional post tied to a Dunkin’ campaign, the actor’s last personal Instagram tribute came in 2023 following the death of his “Friends” co-star. Matthew Perry.
Lisa Kudrow and Danny DeVito also honor the late director
LeBlanc wasn’t the only star to pay tribute. Her former “Friends” co-star Lisa Kudrow shared a photo from the set of “The Comeback,” where Burrows made one of his last on-screen appearances playing a fictional version of himself.
Meanwhile, Danny DeVito issued a heartfelt statement remembering the director’s impact on both his career and his family. “Rhea and I are deeply saddened by the passing of Jimmy Burrows. The entire DeVito family is sorry for the loss of such an exceptional man,” DeVito said. Entertainment Weekly.
“Jimmy guided Rhea and me through 16 seasons of television. He was the best at his craft. His positive spirit, boundless energy and tireless work defined what it takes to run a show and make people laugh. He will always be in our hearts.”
James Burrows helped turn ‘Friends’ into a television phenomenon
While Burrows built an impressive resume through countless comedies, “Friends” remains one of the most beloved projects of his career. In his 2022 memoir, “Directed by James Burrows,” the legendary director recalled his initial reaction after reading the pilot script. “I had a good sense of ‘Friends’ and knew two things immediately: one, I didn’t have time to direct it, and two, I had to direct it,” Burrows wrote. “He became the last pilot shot that year.”
The veteran director said he was instantly drawn to the show’s central cast and the chemistry between the six main characters. “I immediately fell in love with these six children on the page,” he added. “Ninety-five percent of the original pilot script aired.”
Burrows became known for his ability to transform casts into believable groups of friends, helping actors develop chemistry that audiences would later fall in love with. According to television lore, he even took the cast of “Friends” to Las Vegas before the show’s premiere, giving each of the six stars $200 to bet while encouraging them to enjoy their last moments of anonymity before fame changed their lives forever.
The bet paid off. “Friends” became one of the most successful sitcoms in television history, helping launch the careers of Jennifer Aniston, Courtney CoxLisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer.
Burrows’ family confirms death of television legend at age 85
The Burrows family confirmed that the acclaimed television director passed away peacefully on June 19 at the age of 85. “We celebrate the extraordinary life and lasting legacy of James ‘Jimmy’ Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family,” his family said in a statement to PEOPLE.
The statement highlighted Burrows’ notable impact on television, noting that he directed more than 1,000 episodes over a career that spanned more than five decades. Her credits included iconic series such as “The Mary Tyler Moore Show,” “Taxi,” “Cheers,” “Frasier,” “Friends,” “Will & Grace” and “The Big Bang Theory.”
“For more than five decades, Burrows was one of the most influential and beloved directors in the history of television,” the family said. “As a legendary director, mentor and creative force, he helped shape generations of comedy and brought immeasurable joy to audiences around the world.”
Family says James Burrows’ biggest impact was off camera
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Burrows’ loved ones said he would be remembered for his generosity and the way he treated those around him.
“He possessed a rare ability to make everyone better and was known for remembering every person he met by name, making colleagues at all levels feel seen, valued and appreciated,” the statement continued.
The family added that Burrows believed great comedy was about more than just laughs, calling it “humanity, connection and truth,” and said his influence would continue through the countless artists he inspired and the stories he helped bring to life.
Burrows is survived by his wife, Debbie, four daughters and seven grandchildren.
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