276. James Burrows

Emmy-winning director James Burrows talks about the importance of the "straight man," the influence of his legendary dad Abe Burrows, the societal impact of "Will & Grace" and the winning formulas behind "Taxi," "Cheers," "Friends" and "The Mary Tyler Moore Show." Also, Andy Kaufman comes to dinner, Woody Harrelson changes the game, Norman Lear writes a fan letter and James meets John Steinbeck, Truman Capote and Groucho Marx. PLUS: Sydney Pollack! Remembering Ruth Gordon! The comedy of Patchett and Tarses! The generosity of Jay Sandrich! And James directs the "All in the Family" reboot!

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