George Wendt, Known for Playing Norm on ‘Cheers’, Has Died at 76
George Wendt, the actor remembered for his role as Norm on the classic sitcom Cheers, has died at the age of 76. His family shared that he passed away in his sleep at home on May 20. They described him as a loving husband, father, and friend. No cause of death has been announced.
Wendt rose to fame in the 1980s playing Norm Peterson, the witty and dependable regular at the Cheers bar. He appeared in all 275 episodes of the series, from its debut in 1982 through its final episode in 1993. His calm, dry humor and relaxed presence made Norm a fan favorite. Each time he walked into the bar, his name was shouted in unison, a moment that quickly became one of the show’s trademarks.
Before becoming a television fixture, Wendt honed his craft at Second City in Chicago. He later appeared in guest roles on TV staples like MASH*, Taxi, and Soap. As his career evolved, he took on roles in both film and stage. He appeared on Broadway in Hairspray, Elf, and Art. On screen, he acted in movies such as Fletch and Forever Young.
Wendt also brought his voice to animated television, often playing Norm-inspired roles in The Simpsons and Family Guy.
What to remember:
- Born October 17, 1948, in Chicago
- Studied acting at the Kansas City Art Institute
- Married to Bernadette Birkett since 1978; they had three children
- Uncle of Jason Sudeikis
- Earned six consecutive Emmy nominations for Cheers
- Continued working in TV, film, and theater for decades
‘Hard to Imagine That Laugh Being Gone’
Wendt’s Cheers co-stars shared heartfelt messages after news of his death broke. Rhea Perlman, who played Carla, said he was “the sweetest guy” and always showed up with a smile. Ted Danson, who played Sam, said, “I loved him. We all did. It’s hard to imagine that voice and that laugh being gone.”
In a striking bit of timing, Wendt died on May 20, the same date the Cheers finale aired in 1993. Thirty-two years later, fans are saying goodbye once again.
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