James Richard Drake (December 2, 1944 â January 10, 2022) was an American film and television director.
Drake's career began in 1974, working as an associate director for the Norman Lear-produced sitcoms All in the Family and Good Times; he made his lead directorial debut in the syndicated comedy/soap opera spoof series Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman, which was executive produced by Lear. His other television works include Sanford, Gimme a Break!, We Got It Made, The Facts of Life, Newhart, Night Court, The Golden Girls, Dave's World, The Suite Life of Zack & Cody, its spin-off, The Suite Life on Deck, and other series.
His film credits include Mr. Bill's Real Life Adventures, ' and Speed Zone starring John Candy.
Drake was an alumnus of Columbia University and Stanford University. He died in Freeland, Washington, on January 10, 2022, at the age of 77.