Matt LeBlanc returned to Instagram with a rare post on Friday to honor acclaimed television director James Burrows, who died this week at the age of 85.
Burrows left an enormous mark on television throughout his decades-long career. Along with co-creating Cheers, he directed several episodes of Friends, including its iconic pilot episode. He also directed every episode of Will & Grace and helmed the pilots for hit sitcoms Two and a Half Men and The Big Bang Theory.
His work earned him an impressive 11 Emmy Awards and included credits on beloved series such as Frasier and LeBlanc’s more recent sitcom, Man with a Plan.
LeBlanc Shares Rare Instagram Message
In his heartfelt tribute, LeBlanc reflected on the impact Burrows had on both the industry and those who worked with him.
“Jimmy,” LeBlanc began, “words cannot describe the impact and influence you had on us and everyone who was lucky enough to have known you.”
The actor continued: “You sir are a true icon on so many levels. Well wishes in your next act. You will be missed. God Bless.”
The post marked one of LeBlanc’s rare appearances on social media. Aside from a shared Dunkin’ advertisement, his last Instagram upload was a tribute to his late Friends co-star Matthew Perry following Perry’s death in 2023 at age 54.
Lisa Kudrow Remembers Her Friend and Collaborator
LeBlanc wasn’t the only Friends star paying tribute.
Lisa Kudrow also honored Burrows after news of his passing became public. Burrows recently made his final onscreen appearance on the newest season of Kudrow’s comedy series The Comeback, where he played a fictionalized version of himself in a recurring role.
© Lisa Kudrow InstagramLisa Kudrow Instagram
The actress shared a photo of the pair together on set, posing beside a director’s chair embroidered with Burrows’ name and title.
Danny DeVito Reflects on Burrows’ Lasting Legacy
Actor Danny DeVito also shared a statement on behalf of himself and his wife, Rhea Perlman, both of whom had longstanding professional relationships with Burrows.
Perlman rose to fame starring on Cheers, while Burrows directed DeVito on the classic sitcom Taxi, which helped launch both of their careers.
© Vinnie ZuffanteAmerican television director James Burrows in the press room of the 10th Annual American Comedy Awards
“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,” DeVito told Entertainment Weekly.
He added: “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.”
A Career That Helped Define Television Comedy
Burrows directed most of the episodes of Taxi during its run from 1978 to 1982. Following the news of Burrows’ death, the show’s star, Tony Danza, shared his own tribute on X.
“We have lost the greatest of all time. Jimmy Burrows. I know I wouldn’t be here without him.”
The actor also sent his “thoughts” to Burrows’ wife Debbie Easton, whom he married in 1997, and to his four children.
Will & Grace Stars Honor Their Mentor
Will & Grace stars Eric McCormack and Debra Messing also joined the growing list of stars remembering the television icon.
McCormack reflected on Burrows’ influence both personally and professionally, writing: “We lost a giant today, a mentor to me and a dear friend.”
“#JamesBurrows directed every single episode of #Will&Grace… and pretty much everything else. The 800 lb gorilla of television comedy for fifty years, he was beloved by everyone, and has left not a mark but a footprint. An incredible legacy.”
He concluded his tribute by writing: “Jimmy, thank you for everything you gave us. I love you. And I send so much love to Debbie and your whole beautiful family.”
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