George Wendt, Beloved 'Cheers' Star, Dies at 76

Published: May 20, 2025

George Wendt, the iconic actor best known for his portrayal of Norm Peterson on the hit sitcom "Cheers," has passed away at the age of 76.

Wendt's publicist, Melissa Nathan, confirmed the news to PEOPLE, stating that the beloved actor died peacefully in his sleep at home on Tuesday, May 20.

"George's family confirmed the news of his death early morning, announcing he died peacefully in his sleep while at home," the statement read. "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 was born in Chicago in 1948 and was one of nine children, including his sister Kathryn, who is the mother of actor and comedian Jason Sudeikis.

Wendt's early career began at Chicago's The Second City theater, where he met his wife, Bernadette Birkett, whom he married in 1978. The couple shared three children, Hilary, Joe, and Daniel.

Wendt's earliest roles included small parts on series such as "Hart to Hart," "Soap," "Taxi," and "M*A*S*H." He also appeared in a handful of films, including "My Bodyguard," "Jekyll and Hyde... Together Again," and "Airplane II: The Sequel."

However, it was his role as Norm Peterson that brought him widespread recognition and acclaim. Wendt was cast on "Cheers" in 1982 and remained a mainstay of the show until its conclusion in 1993.

"I get a lot of free beers. It's one of the great perks of employment history," Wendt told The Washington Post in 1985. "Whenever I go out, people are always sending over a beer, or a round, for me and my friends."

Wendt was a six-time Emmy nominee for his role on "Cheers." He became close friends with his castmates, including Ted Danson, Shelley Long, Kelsey Grammer, Rhea Perlman, and Woody Harrelson.

After "Cheers," Wendt went on to appear in numerous TV shows and films, including "Seinfeld," "The Simpsons," "Sabrina the Teenage Witch," "Hot in Cleveland," and "Fresh Off the Boat."

In 2023, he competed on "The Masked Singer" and reunited with his "Cheers" costars at the 2023 Emmys to present the award for outstanding directing for a comedy series.

Wendt's acting philosophy was simple: "I just look for fun things to do," he told the Chicago Tribune in 2002. His biggest advice for aspiring actors was "Have fun."

"Look, it's brutal out there. If you're not having fun, it's not worth it," Wendt added.

Wendt is survived by his wife and children.

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