George Wendt, Beloved ‘Cheers’ Actor Known as Norm, Dies at 76
George Wendt, the iconic actor best known for playing the lovable barfly Norm Peterson on the classic sitcom Cheers, has died at the age of 76. His family confirmed the news in a statement released through his publicist, saying Wendt passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday morning.
“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 became a staple of American television through his role on Cheers, which aired from 1982 to 1993. Over the course of more than 260 episodes, Norm became a fan-favorite character — a regular at the Boston bar “where everybody knows your name.” His entrances were always met with a booming “Norm!” from the crowd, cementing his status as a cultural icon.
A native of Chicago, Wendt began his career at the legendary Second City comedy theater after dropping out of the University of Notre Dame. According to his Second City biography, Wendt had a 0.0 GPA when he left school, but he later returned to higher education and earned a degree in economics from Rockhurst College in Kansas City, Missouri.
In a 2016 interview with The Kansas City Star, Wendt reflected on his early inspiration: “I remember going to see Second City when I was in college. It looked for all the world like a bunch of young men and women goofing off onstage, and I was pretty sure they got paid. So I thought, wow, if I could do that.”
Comedy clearly ran in the family — Wendt’s nephew is Ted Lasso creator and Saturday Night Live alum Jason Sudeikis, who also came through The Second City ranks. A representative for Sudeikis has not yet commented on his uncle’s passing.
Before landing his breakthrough role on Cheers, Wendt appeared in guest roles on shows like Hart to Hart and Making the Grade. But it was his portrayal of Norm that earned him six Emmy nominations and a place in television history. He shared the screen with a star-studded cast including Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, Shelley Long, Woody Harrelson, Kirstie Alley, and Kelsey Grammer.
Ted Danson expressed deep sorrow over the loss of his longtime friend and co-star. “It is going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie,” Danson said in a statement.
John Ratzenberger, who played Norm’s bar buddy Cliff Clavin, also paid tribute: “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. He was a true craftsman — humble, hilarious, and full of heart.”
After Cheers, Wendt starred briefly in The George Wendt Show and continued acting in both film and television. Notably, he brought warmth and humor to even the smallest roles, such as his appearance in the 1994 film The Little Rascals, where he played a lumber salesman during a pivotal scene.
While Wendt never won an Emmy, his legacy as one of TV’s most enduring and beloved characters lives on. Norm wasn’t just a regular at the bar — he became a regular in the hearts of millions.
George Wendt is survived by his wife and children. He leaves behind a legacy of laughter, loyalty, and a seat at the bar that will never be filled.
George Wendt’s Film and Television Career: A Comprehensive Overview
George Wendt, best known for his iconic portrayal of Norm Peterson on the beloved sitcom Cheers, had a prolific career spanning several decades. Beyond his signature role, Wendt showcased his versatility across various genres in both film and television. Here’s an overview of his notable works:
