Renowned television director James Burrows, best known for directing the hit sitcom Friends, has passed away.
He was 85.
His family announced his passing in a statement shared with PEOPLE magazine on June 19, 2026.
The family said, “We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James 'Jimmy' Burrows, who passed away peacefully today, surrounded by his loving family."
Read: Friends Stars Honor Matthew Perry's Memory
At this writing, the exact cause, time, and place of his death have not yet been disclosed.
Following the news, Friends stars Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer, and Lisa Kudrow took to social media to pay tribute to the acclaimed director, who played a pivotal role in shaping the beloved sitcom throughout its 10-season run.
Read: Lotlot de Leon initiated convo about issue with Ian de Leon
Jennifer Aniston
Jennifer Aniston described Burrows as "the father figure every actor dreams of having," thanking him for believing in the cast from the very beginning and for creating a workplace filled with laughter, love, and unwavering support.
She wrote: "Oh boy…Papa Burrows. The hardest thing about writing this is that you spent a lifetime making people feel loved, and now it feels impossible to put all of that love into a few paragraphs.
"He called us his kids—'Where are the kids? Let’s see if the kids can make the joke work.' No pressure.
"His own incredible children were generous enough to share him with all of us who were lucky enough to experience his unicorn presence.
"He was a father figure to me. He always checked in on me. He worried about me, celebrated me, taught me, guided me, and held me through the hardest times and the best of times. He spoiled us rotten.
"Most of all, he taught us—the kids—how important it is to love and respect one another.
"To take care of each other. To have each other’s backs and support each other, no matter what. And we did just that.
"I miss your voice. I miss your laugh. I miss your brilliance. Wherever you are, I hope someone is asking, 'Where are the kids?'"
Jennifer portrayed Rachel Green in Friends.
Courteney Cox
Courteney Cox remembered Burrows as someone who "made everyone feel safe," saying his warmth, kindness, and comedic brilliance helped turn Friends into the global phenomenon it became.
She portrayed Monica Geller in the sitcom.
She said: "Jimmy B called me Cox-N-Hammer. I have no idea why or what it means, but I just went with it ‘cause he was Jimmy Burrows.
"He always referred to us as 'the kids'… he took the cast under his wing and taught us everything we needed to know — whether through his direction, or telling us how things in our lives were gonna unfold — never sugar-coating anything and he was always right.
"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. 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. Making anything the best it could be was all that mattered to Jimmy… well, that and his wonderful kids and his beautiful wife, Debbie. I so loved watching them fall in love.
"I will miss you so much Jimmy…the joy and laughter you brought to everyone who knew you. How much you cared… but I know your light will always be shining on us."
Matt LeBlanc
Matt LeBlanc reflected on Burrows' lasting influence on television and on everyone fortunate enough to have worked with him.
"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," she shared.
Matt portrayed Joey Tribbiani in the series.
David Schwimmer
While David Schwimmer, who portrayed Ross Geller, praised Burrows as a director who consistently brought out the best in every actor he worked with.
He wrote: "Jimmy Burrows brought out the best in every actor he ever worked with, and elevated every show he directed, making it funnier and more moving than anyone expected.
"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 looked out for us, on camera and off.
"He became another Father figure for me, and I’m sure others. Paternal in the best sense of the word: Loving, wise, encouraging, challenging, instructive, patient, inspiring, playful—and on my best days, I’d like to think, even proud."
He concluded his message by thanking Burrows for being "such a wonderful director, mentor and friend," saying, "Jimmy, I miss you already and I'm forever grateful to you."
Lisa Kudrow
Lisa Kudrow, who portrayed Phoebe Buffay in Friends, also honored Burrows through her Instagram Stories.
She simply wrote, “Thank you Jimmy. I mean, for everything…”
JAMES BURROWS' LEGACY
Burrows was widely recognized for helping shape some of the most iconic American television comedies of all time, directing episodes of some of television’s most iconic sitcoms, including Friends, The Big Bang Theory, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Taxi, and Frasier, among others.
Read: Eman Bacosa knocked down by Rodelyn Perez in title fight
He was also one of the co-creators of the classic sitcom Cheers (1982) and Will & Grace (1998).
Throughout his decades-long career, Burrows received some of the industry’s highest honors, winning 11 Emmy Awards and five Directors Guild of America Awards, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential television comedy directors of all time.