George Wendt, actor who played Norm on ‘Cheers,’ dead at 76
Introduction:
George Wendt, Beloved 'Cheers' Star, Dies at 76
May 20, 2025 — Los Angeles, California — George Wendt, the actor renowned for his portrayal of Norm Peterson on the classic NBC sitcom Cheers, has passed away at the age of 76. According to a statement from his family, Wendt died peacefully in his sleep at his home in Los Angeles. His passing occurred on May 20, 2025, exactly 32 years after the series finale of Cheers aired in 1993.
A Career Defined by Norm Peterson
Born on October 17, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, George Robert Wendt Jr. began his career in the entertainment industry as a member of Chicago’s Second City improv troupe. His big break came in 1982 when he was cast as Norm Peterson, the affable and beer-loving barfly, on Cheers. Wendt appeared in all 275 episodes of the series, earning six consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series from 1984 to 1989.
Norm Peterson became one of television's most beloved characters, known for his witty one-liners and his unflappable presence at the bar. The character's entrance was always met with the enthusiastic greeting, "Norm!" from the bar's patrons.
Life Beyond 'Cheers'
While George Wendt will forever be cherished for his role as Norm Peterson, his career extended far beyond the walls of the Cheers bar. After the show concluded in 1993, Wendt remained active in television, film, and theater, continuing to showcase his range as a performer.
In 1995, he starred in The George Wendt Show, a short-lived sitcom that offered him a lead role, though it didn’t find the same success as Cheers. He made memorable guest appearances on numerous hit shows including Frasier, Seinfeld, The Simpsons, Family Guy, and Sabrina the Teenage Witch, often playing lovable, humorous characters with his trademark warmth and charm.
Wendt also appeared in several films over the decades, including:
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Fletch (1985) with Chevy Chase
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Guilty by Suspicion (1991) alongside Robert De Niro
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The Little Rascals (1994), where he played a humorous version of Santa Claus
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Forever Young (1992) with Mel Gibson
A passionate stage actor, Wendt embraced theater work later in his career. He starred on Broadway and in national tours of major productions such as:
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Hairspray, where he played Edna Turnblad
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Art, a Tony Award-winning play
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Elf: The Musical, bringing his comedic skills to holiday audiences
He also co-wrote a humorous memoir titled Drinking with George: A Barstool Professional's Guide to Beer, blending stories from his life with reflections on his time as Norm—a character who famously loved a good pint.
Throughout his post-Cheers career, Wendt remained a beloved figure in the entertainment world, frequently invited to fan conventions, TV specials, and reunion events. He embraced his legacy with humility and good humor, never distancing himself from the role that made him famous but always eager to explore new creative avenues.
George Wendt’s work beyond Cheers reinforced his reputation as a versatile, dependable, and deeply likable performer—one who continued to make people laugh and feel at home, no matter the stage or screen.
Tributes from Friends and Colleagues
Following the news of George Wendt’s passing, heartfelt tributes poured in from across the entertainment industry, especially from those who had worked closely with him during his legendary run on Cheers and throughout his career.
Ted Danson, who played bartender Sam Malone on Cheers, shared an emotional statement:
“George was more than just a co-star—he was a dear friend, a comedic genius, and the heart of our show. Every time he walked into the bar as Norm, he made everyone feel at home. I will miss his laugh, his warmth, and his friendship dearly.”
Rhea Perlman, who portrayed Carla Tortelli, called Wendt “a joy to work with”:
“George had this rare quality—you instantly felt better just being around him. He was generous with his humor, generous with his heart. I’m so lucky to have known him.”
John Ratzenberger, who played Cliff Clavin—Norm’s best friend on the show—reflected on their long friendship:
“We spent more time together than most friends ever do, and I wouldn’t trade those years for anything. George was a big man in every sense—big talent, big laugh, big heart.”
Kelsey Grammer, who starred as Frasier Crane, noted Wendt’s authenticity:
“George brought so much humanity to his role. He was funny without trying, and kind without fail. A true original.”
Beyond the Cheers cast, comedians and actors from multiple generations honored Wendt. The National Comedy Center released a statement praising his “immeasurable contribution to the golden age of television comedy,” while Jason Sudeikis, his nephew, shared a touching tribute on social media:
“Uncle George taught me that being funny doesn’t mean being loud—it means being honest. He was the kindest kind of funny, and he made the world warmer by being in it.”
The outpouring of love and remembrance reflects how deeply George Wendt was admired—not only for the characters he portrayed, but for the person he was behind the scenes: gracious, grounded, and unforgettable.
Personal Life
George Wendt was known not only for his comedic talent but also for his grounded and devoted personal life. He was married to actress Bernadette Birkett for nearly five decades. The couple met through their work in theater and improv and remained together for over 47 years—a rarity in Hollywood. Together, they had three children and built a close-knit family away from the limelight.
Interestingly, Birkett also had a small but recurring presence on Cheers—she provided the voice of Norm’s never-seen wife, Vera.
Wendt was also the uncle of actor Jason Sudeikis, known for his work on Saturday Night Live and Ted Lasso. Sudeikis has often cited Wendt as an early inspiration in his own career.
Despite his fame, Wendt kept a relatively private personal life, preferring to stay out of the tabloids. Friends and colleagues frequently described him as kind, approachable, and deeply loyal to those he cared about. His family remembers him as a loving husband, a supportive father, and a man who brought warmth and joy into their lives—both on screen and at home.
Conclusion
George Wendt’s passing marks the end of an era for fans of classic television and comedy. As Norm Peterson on Cheers, he brought heart, humor, and a comforting presence to millions of viewers around the world. His legacy goes far beyond a single role—Wendt embodied the spirit of a performer who truly loved his craft and connected with audiences in a way few ever do.
He will be remembered not only for his iconic barstool seat at Cheers but for the warmth, humility, and laughter he shared both on and off the screen. George Wendt leaves behind a rich legacy in entertainment and in the hearts of those who loved him—colleagues, family, and fans alike.
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