Beloved ‘Cheers’ Actor George Wendt Dies At 76

Actor George Wendt, best known for his portrayal as bar regular Norm Peterson for all 11 seasons of the legendary NBC sitcom “Cheers,” has died at the age of 76, his family announced on Tuesday.

“Beloved actor and comedian, George Wendt, best known for starring in the NBC hit comedy ‘Cheers,’ has passed away,” a statement from his rep said, per People. 

“George’s family confirmed the news of his death early Tuesday morning, announcing he died peacefully in his sleep while at home,” the statement continued. “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.”

Wendt is one of nine children. His sister Kathryn is the mother of actor and comedian Jason Sudeikis, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The actor hailed from Chicago and got his start with the famed improv comedy troupe Second City, also the launchpad for famous names like Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, John Candy, Steve Carell, Bill Murray, Chris Farley, and a host of others.

Wendt also appeared on “Saturday Night Live,” including his recurring role as Bob Swerski in the “Chicago Superfans” sketches. 

His movie acting credits include “Dreamscape” (1984), “House” (1985), “Fletch” (1985), “Gung Ho” (1986), “Plains Clothes” (1987), “Never Say Die” (1988), “Guilty by Suspicion” (1991), “Forever Young” (1992), and “Spice World” (1997).

Besides “Cheers,” Wendt’s TV appearances include “Seinfeld,” “The Simpsons,” “Sabrina the Teenage Witch,” “Hot in Cleveland,” “Portlandia,” and “Fresh Off the Boat.” He had a self-titled show in 1995 that was canceled after one season. 

Wendt received Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for six consecutive years for “Cheers,” and though he never won, the role was beloved by fans. He became very close to castmates Ted Danson, Shelley Long, Rhea Perlman, John Ratzenberger, Kelsey Grammer, and Woody Harrelson.

When the series ended in 1993, Wendt’s wife told People that the “Cheers” cast really were friends in real life. “They get along like siblings. To somebody peeking in from the outside, they look like they’re having the greatest time in the world,” she said at the time.