Friends’ Jennifer Aniston honours ‘father figure’ James Burrows with castmates

Former Friends star Jennifer Aniston has joined castmates David Schwimmer, Lisa Kudrow and Matt LeBlanc, in paying tribute to “father figure” director James Burrows following his death.

Burrows, who directed the US sitcom and was also the co-creator of Cheers, died aged 85, with his death announced on Friday.

In a post on Instagram, accompanied by pictures of the cast with Burrows, Aniston, 57, said: “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.”

Schwimmer, 59, who played Ross Geller in Friends, shared Aniston’s sentiments.

He added: “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 added that he was already missing the director, who he said he was “forever grateful to”, and the post was accompanied by a black and white image of him, Burrows and LeBlanc.

LeBlanc, 58, who played Joey Tribbiani in Friends, added: “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.”

LeBlanc’s post was accompanied with a picture of him and Burrows at Wembley Stadium.

Kudrow, 62, who played Phoebe Buffay in Friends, posted a picture of herself with Burrows next to his director’s chair on her Instagram story.

In a statement announcing his death, shared with US outlet People, Burrows’ family said: “We celebrate the extraordinary life and enduring legacy of James ‘Jimmy’ Burrows, who passed away peacefully today surrounded by his loving family.

“For more than five decades, Burrows was one of the most influential and beloved directors in television history.

“As a legendary director, mentor, and creative force, he helped shape generations of comedy and brought immeasurable joy to audiences around the world.”

Burrows also worked on shows including The Big Bang Theory and Will And Grace, and won 11 Emmy Awards during his career.