Chuck Lorre Remembers ‘Big Bang Theory’ & ‘Two And A Half Men’ Pilot Director James Burrows: “There Was No One Like Him”
James Burrows, a celebrated television comedy director, recently died following a short illness. His passing represents a significant professional loss for Chuck Lorre, with whom he maintained a collaborative relationship spanning more than three decades. Their partnership began in 1997 when Burrows directed the pilot for Lorre's ABC series Dharma & Greg, launching a productive working alliance that would continue across multiple television projects.
During their long association, Burrows directed pilots and served in directing/producing capacities on numerous Lorre-produced shows including Two and a Half Men, The Big Bang Theory, Mike & Molly, Disjointed, and B Positive. Lorre publicly characterized Burrows as a "great man" and "singular talent," noting that their professional relationship had evolved into genuine friendship. He reflected on the privilege of having worked alongside and befriended someone of Burrows' calibre throughout his career.
- James Burrows, legendary television comedy director, passed away last month after a brief illness
- He directed pilots and episodes for multiple Chuck Lorre productions over a 30-year partnership beginning in 1997
- Lorre described Burrows as an irreplaceable talent and valued friend whose collaboration shaped his most successful series