George Wendt, best known for playing Norm Peterson on the long-running NBC sitcom Cheers, has passed away, with news of his death confirmed recently. The Emmy-nominated actor became a beloved television icon for portraying the beer-loving bar regular over 11 seasons.
Here’s what we know so far about George Wendt’s death.
George Wendt passes away at 76, claims report
George Wendt, widely recognized for portraying Norm Peterson on the NBC sitcom Cheers, died peacefully in his sleep at home on Tuesday morning. He was 76.
His family confirmed the news through his publicist, stating, “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him,” per BBC. Wendt played Norm, a bar regular known for his love of beer, on all 11 seasons of Cheers from 1982 to 1993.
He received six consecutive Emmy nominations from 1984 to 1989 for his performance, appearing in more than 260 episodes. Wendt shared the screen with castmates Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, and John Ratzenberger, with Danson remarking, “It is going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie.”
Born George Robert Wendt Jr. in Chicago on October 17, 1948, he began his career with The Second City comedy troupe. This came after he was expelled from Notre Dame. He later earned a degree in economics from Jesuit Rockhurst College in Kansas City. His early television credits included Taxi, Hart to Hart, and Making the Grade. He landed the role of Norm shortly after.
Beyond Cheers, Wendt appeared on Frasier, The Simpsons, Family Guy, and Saturday Night Live. He also starred in films such as Fletch and Forever Young. On Broadway, he performed in Art and Hairspray. In 2009, he released a book titled Drinking With George: A Barstool Professional’s Guide to Beer.
Survivors include his wife Bernadette Birkett, their children Hilary, Joe, and Daniel, and stepchildren Joshua and Andrew. Wendt was also the uncle of actor and comedian Jason Sudeikis.
