George Wendt, the actor best known for his beloved portrayal of Norm Peterson on the long-running NBC sitcom Cheers, has passed away at the age of 76, Fox News Digital has confirmed.
According to a statement released by a family representative, Wendt died peacefully in his sleep Tuesday morning.
“George was a devoted family man and a treasured friend and confidant to those fortunate enough to have known him,” the statement read. “He will be deeply missed. The family has requested privacy during this time.”
Wendt’s portrayal of the affable bar regular Norm made him a household name. Appearing in all 275 episodes of Cheers, he became a cornerstone of the show’s enduring charm and success. His performance earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations, a testament to his consistent impact and popularity with audiences and critics alike.
Following the conclusion of Cheers in 1993, Wendt launched his own series, The George Wendt Show. He also made a number of film appearances, including roles in The Little Rascals, Santa Buddies, Alice in Wonderland, and Airplane II: The Sequel, showcasing his versatility across genres.
Cheers, which aired from 1982 to 1993, was set in a cozy Boston bar where “everybody knows your name.” The series became a cultural touchstone, lauded for its writing, ensemble cast, and character-driven humor. Wendt was part of a core cast that included Ted Danson, Shelley Long, Rhea Perlman, John Ratzenberger, and Nicholas Colasanto. Later seasons featured memorable performances from Kelsey Grammer, Woody Harrelson, Kirstie Alley, and Bebe Neuwirth.
Over its 11-season run, Cheers garnered 117 Emmy nominations, winning 28, along with six Golden Globe Awards from 31 nominations—cementing its place in television history.
George Wendt leaves behind a legacy of warmth, laughter, and enduring performances that helped define an era of television comedy.
