George Wendt has passed away at the age of 76.
Strangely, he's died on the anniversary of the final episode of Cheers. This is sad, on many levels. We've lost one of the great ones. https://t.co/AfFMvcPrxd— The Sting (@TheStingisBack) May 20, 2025
George Wendt, 'Norm' of Cheers Fame, Has Died
Beege Welborn
Ah, the place 'where everybody' knew your name.
George Wendt, an actor with an Everyman charm who played the affable, beer-loving barfly Norm on the hit 1980s TV comedy “Cheers” and later crafted a stage career that took him to Broadway in “Art,” “Hairspray” and “Elf,” has died. He was 76.
Wendt’s family said he died early Tuesday morning, peacefully in his sleep while at home, according to the publicity firm The Agency Group.
“George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him,” the family said in a statement. “He will be missed forever.” The family has requested privacy during this time.
Despite a long career of roles onstage and on TV, it was as gentle and henpecked Norm Peterson on “Cheers” that he was most associated, earning six straight Emmy Award nominations for best supporting actor in a comedy series from 1984-89.
RIP, dear, gentle, funny man.
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