Actor George Wendt has died at 76, his publicist, Melissa Nathan, announced in a statement shared with People on Tuesday, May 20.
“Beloved actor and comedian, George Wendt, best known for starring in the NBC hit comedy ‘Cheers,’ has passed away,” the statement began.
“George’s family confirmed the news of his death early Tuesday morning, announcing he died peacefully in his sleep while at home. 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.”
Nathan concluded the statement, saying, “The family has requested privacy during this time.”
Best known for playing the witty Norm Peterson on “Cheers” from 1982 to 1993, Wendt began his career in his native Chicago, where he was a comedian at The Second City in the 1970s before he became an actor, Variety reports.
During his time as Norm Peterson, Wendt received six Emmy nominations for supporting actor in a comedy series. He became a “Saturday Night Live” regular in the 1990s.
In 2024, Wendt reprised his most famous role during the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards alongside Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, Kelsey Grammer and John Ratzenberger.
According to Variety, in 1978, prior to his success on “Cheers,” Wendt met his wife, Bernadette Birkett, who lent her voice to Norm Peterson’s wife.
Wendt is survived by Birkett and their three children, Joe, Daniel and Hilary. Wendt is also an uncle to fellow beloved comedic actor Jason Sudeikis.
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