George Wendt, best known for his iconic role as Norm Peterson on the classic US sitcom Cheers, has died at the age of 76.
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The beloved actor passed away peacefully in his sleep at home, according to a statement from his family’s representative, Melissa Nathan. “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him,” the statement read. “He will be missed forever.”
Wendt rose to international fame as the lovable barfly Norm on Cheers, one of television’s most enduring and successful comedies. Airing from 1982 to 1993, the series followed a group of regulars at a Boston bar and became a cornerstone of American pop culture.
A sitcom staple with an unforgettable entrance
For 11 seasons, Wendt’s portrayal of Norm—a witty, beer-loving everyman—earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations. Each time his character walked into the bar, he was met with a chorus of “Norm!” from the patrons, followed by a perfectly delivered one-liner. It became one of the show’s most beloved running gags.
He starred alongside a stellar ensemble that included Ted Danson as barman Sam Malone, Rhea Perlman as no-nonsense waitress Carla, John Ratzenberger as Cliff the postman, and Kelsey Grammer as the cerebral Frasier Crane. Woody Harrelson later joined the cast as the endearing but dim-witted bartender, Woody.
Tributes pour in from castmates and fans
News of Wendt’s passing prompted an outpouring of tributes from his Cheers co-stars. Ted Danson said he was “devastated” by the loss. “It is going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie,” he said.
John Ratzenberger, who played Cliff, described Wendt as “subtly brilliant”, adding: “For 11 years on Cheers, we shared a stage, a lot of laughs and a front-row seat to one of television’s most beloved friendships.”
Rhea Perlman also paid tribute, remembering him as “the sweetest, kindest man. It was impossible not to like him.”
A family legacy of comedy
Outside of his acting career, Wendt was the uncle of Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis, continuing a family connection to comedy and feel-good television.
Though he played many other roles across film, television, and stage, it is his performance as Norm that left an indelible mark on audiences across generations.
A final toast to Norm
George Wendt may have taken his last bow, but his presence will remain etched in television history. For fans who grew up with Cheers, his warm wit and signature barstool banter were the heart of the show’s charm.
Raise a glass to a sitcom legend—one last call for Norm.
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