LOS ANGELES, June 20 -- Acclaimed television director and producer James Burrows, whose work helped define generations of sitcoms including Friends, Cheers and Taxi, has died at the age of 85.

According to a statement released by his family, Burrows passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. Details regarding the time and place of his death were not disclosed.

Widely regarded as one of television's most influential comedy directors, Burrows enjoyed a career spanning more than five decades. During that time, he directed over 1,000 television episodes and won 11 Emmy Awards for excellence in television production.

Burrows was a pioneer of the multi-camera sitcom format and played a key role in shaping modern television comedy. He b...