George Wendt, the beloved actor best known for portraying Norm Peterson on the iconic NBC sitcom Cheers, has passed away at the age of 76. He died peacefully in his sleep at home on May 20, 2025, exactly 32 years after the series finale aired.
Wendt’s portrayal of Norm, the affable barfly with a penchant for witty one-liners and a love for beer, made him a central figure in all 275 episodes of Cheers from 1982 to 1993. His performance earned him six consecutive Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series between 1984 and 1989.
Born on October 17, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, Wendt began his career with Chicago’s Second City improv troupe before transitioning to television and film. Beyond Cheers, he appeared in various films, including Fletch (1985) and Guilty by Suspicion (1991), and made guest appearances on popular TV shows such as Frasier, Family Guy, and The Simpsons . He also performed on Broadway in productions like Art and Hairspray, the latter of which he described as his favorite role after Norm.
Wendt is survived by his wife of 47 years, Bernadette Birkett, their three children, and his nephew, actor Jason Sudeikis. His family remembers him as a devoted family man and cherished friend who will be deeply missed.
Tributes from his Cheers co-stars, including Ted Danson, John Ratzenberger, and Rhea Perlman, have poured in, celebrating his warmth, comedic talent, and deep friendship . The Bull & Finch Pub in Boston, the inspiration for the Cheers bar, honored him with a reserved stool and beer.
Wendt’s legacy as a comedic icon endures, and his contributions to television and theater have left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry.
