Wendt, who captivated audiences as Norm Peterson on the hit sitcom Cheers, has died at 76, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and fond memories.
Farewell to Cheers Star George Wendt at 76

Farewell to Cheers Star George Wendt at 76
Beloved actor and comedian George Wendt, known for his iconic role in Cheers, passes away peacefully.
George Wendt, acclaimed for portraying Norm Peterson in the classic sitcom Cheers, has passed away at the age of 76. His family reported that he died peacefully in his sleep at his home on Tuesday morning, prompting an outpouring of tributes. “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,” a family representative shared with the BBC.
Wendt was a key figure in all 275 episodes of Cheers, which aired from 1982 to 1993. His character, Norm, became a fan favorite, known for his routine entrance into the bar where the patrons would warmly call out his name. Wendt also received six consecutive Emmy nominations for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series due to his compelling performance.
Beyond Cheers, Wendt's acting career spanned several films, including Dreamscape, Forever Young, and Gung Ho. Notably, he appeared as the father of a boy played by Macaulay Culkin in Michael Jackson’s memorable Black or White music video in 1991. Wendt was married to fellow actor Bernadette Birkett since 1978, and they had three children together. He was also the uncle of actor and comedian Jason Sudeikis, renowned for his role in the hit series Ted Lasso.
As fans and fellow actors commemorate Wendt's contribution to television and film, his legacy as a beloved entertainer will undoubtedly live on.
Wendt was a key figure in all 275 episodes of Cheers, which aired from 1982 to 1993. His character, Norm, became a fan favorite, known for his routine entrance into the bar where the patrons would warmly call out his name. Wendt also received six consecutive Emmy nominations for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series due to his compelling performance.
Beyond Cheers, Wendt's acting career spanned several films, including Dreamscape, Forever Young, and Gung Ho. Notably, he appeared as the father of a boy played by Macaulay Culkin in Michael Jackson’s memorable Black or White music video in 1991. Wendt was married to fellow actor Bernadette Birkett since 1978, and they had three children together. He was also the uncle of actor and comedian Jason Sudeikis, renowned for his role in the hit series Ted Lasso.
As fans and fellow actors commemorate Wendt's contribution to television and film, his legacy as a beloved entertainer will undoubtedly live on.