Cheers star George Wendt dies aged 76 as family issues emotional statement
George Wendt, best known for his iconic role as Norm on the beloved sitcom Cheers, has passed away at the age of 76.
His family confirmed that the actor died at his home on Tuesday morning.
In a statement, they wrote: “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”
His passing comes exactly 32 years to the day after Cheers aired its final episode on May 20, 1993.
Wendt was best known for playing Norm Peterson, appearing in all 275 episodes of the iconic series.
His portrayal earned him six consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor.
Following the show’s end, his popularity even led to a spin-off centered around his character.
He went on to star in The George Wendt Show, a short-lived CBS sitcom that was canceled after just six episodes.
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The series centered on two bachelor brothers from Wisconsin who ran a garage and co-hosted a radio show focused on car repairs.
Before Cheers, Wendt made brief appearances in popular shows like Taxi, Soap, and MASH*.
His talents extended beyond television—he built a diverse film career with roles in The Little Rascals, Spice World, Airplane II: The Sequel, Alice in Wonderland, No Small Affair, Santa Buddies, and several other films.
Wendt got his start in sketch and improv comedy, laying the foundation for a career that would eventually make him a beloved Hollywood staple.
He even played Bob Swerski on Saturday Night Live.
Wendt was born in Chicago. He earned a degree in economics after traveling in Europe and North Africa in his youth, before returning to enroll in the Second City comedy troupe’s acting workshop.
He married his wife Bernadette Birkett in 1978, and they share three children together.
He is also the uncle of Ted Lasso actor Jason Sudeikis.