Cheers star George Wendt passed away at the age of 76

The cherished actor George Wendt, who was most famous for playing Norm Peterson on the iconic comedy Cheers, died at the age of 76. On May 20, 2025, he passed away quietly in his sleep at home in Los Angeles, his family said in a statement. His passing coincides with the 32nd anniversary of the Cheers series finale, which aired on May 20, 1993.

Wendt’s portrayal of Norm, the affable, beer-loving regular at the Boston bar “where everybody knows your name,” made him a fan favorite. He appeared in all 275 episodes of Cheers from 1982 to 1993 and earned six consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series from 1984 to 1989.

Born on October 17, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Wendt began his career in comedy with the city’s famed Second City improv troupe. He wanted to play the one-word role of “beer” on his first audition for Cheers, but he ended up playing the legendary role of Norm Peterson.

Wendt had a varied career in theater, cinema, and television outside of Cheers. He starred in movies including Fletch, The Little Rascals, and Forever Young and made appearances on television programs like Saturday Night Live, Seinfeld, The Simpsons, and Sabrina the Teenage Witch. On stage, he took on roles in Broadway productions like Hairspray, where he played Edna Turnblad, and Elf.

Wendt is survived by his nephew, actor Jason Sudeikis, his wife of 47 years, Bernadette Birkett, and their three children. He will be much mourned by his family, who recalled him as a loving friend and loyal family guy.

Tributes have poured in from colleagues and fans alike. Wendt’s co-star on Cheers, Ted Danson, called him “Georgie” and showed compassion for Wendt’s family, expressing his profound sadness at the loss. Actor Jon Cryer, comedian Jeff Ross, actress Melissa Joan Hart, and actor Eric Allan Kramer are among the others who have paid tribute to Wendt, emphasizing her professionalism, kindness, and compassion.

George Wendt’s legacy as Norm Peterson and his contributions to entertainment will continue to be celebrated by fans and peers alike.

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