Friends stars Matt LeBlanc, David Schwimmer and Lisa Kudrow paid tribute to late co-creator James Burrows on social media following his heartbreaking death.
The iconic television director, known for his work on films such as “Will & Grace,” “Frasier” and “Friends,” died Friday at the age of 85, his family confirmed to People magazine. LeBlanc later shared a rare Instagram post paying tribute to Burrows.
“Jimmy, words cannot describe the impact and impact you have had on us and all those who were lucky enough to know you,” LeBlanc wrote, sharing a selfie of himself with Burroughs smiling at a sporting event.
“You are a true icon on many levels and I wish you all the best in your next endeavor,” the 58-year-old continued. “You will be missed. God bless you.”
LeBlanc also posted a throwback photo from the 2016 NBC special “Must See TV: An All-Star Tribute to James Burroughs,” in which he and Schwimmer were seen hugging a goofy-looking Burroughs and smiling.
Schwimmer posted the same photo on Instagram, writing, “Jimmy Burrows brings out the best in every actor he’s ever worked with and elevates every show he’s directed, making it funnier and more moving than anyone could have ever expected.”
“His warmth, humility, and generosity made us feel like family. I’m sure we weren’t the only cast members who felt that way. He cared for us on and off camera.”
The 59-year-old actor also described Burrows as “loving, wise, encouraging, challenging, instructive, patient, inspiring, playful. And on his best days, he makes you think, even proud.”
“Thousands of writers, actors, producers, staff, and network executives will forever be happy to have shared the soundstage with him, watched him work, and learned from his unique talent,” he continued, “Jimmy, we will miss you so much and will forever be grateful to you. Thank you for being a great director, mentor, and friend.”
Meanwhile, Kudrow posted a photo of himself and the late director on the set of “The Comeback” on his Instagram Stories.
Burrows said in his 2022 memoir “Director James Burrows” that he knew “Friends” was the show he wanted to work on.
“I knew a lot about Friends, and I quickly realized two things: One, I didn’t have time to direct it, and two, I had to direct it. This was the last pilot shoot of that year,” he wrote of his thoughts in 1994.
“I instantly fell in love with the six kids featured on the page. Ninety-five percent of the original pilot script aired.”
“I knew this show had a chance to really take off, so I told the kids, ‘This is your last chance to be anonymous. Once the show airs, you won’t be able to go anywhere without being followed.’ None of them believed me,” he continued.
Burroughs directed 15 episodes of “Friends” over 10 seasons. He was nominated for an Emmy Award for “The One with the Blackout.”
