Remembering George Wendt: Beloved ‘Cheers’ Star Norm Passes Away at 76

George Wendt, the beloved actor known for his role as Norm Peterson on NBC’s iconic show “Cheers,” passed away at home. He was 76 years old. His publicist, Melissa Nathan, shared that he was a devoted family man and a cherished friend, and his loss will be deeply felt.

Wendt’s journey in comedy began in Chicago’s vibrant improv scene. He was part of The Second City in the 1970s, where he honed his skills before transitioning to television. His portrayal of Norm, the lovable barfly, became a hallmark of “Cheers.” Fans still recall his warm greeting, “Afternoon, everybody,” as one of the show’s highlights.

During his 11 seasons on “Cheers,” Wendt received six Emmy nominations for his outstanding performance. He also reprised his role in the spin-offs “The Tortellis” and “Frasier.” After “Cheers,” he starred in his own short-lived sitcom, “The George Wendt Show,” where he played a radio host and mechanic—a series that unfortunately lasted only a month.

In the 1990s, Wendt became a familiar face on “Saturday Night Live,” sharing the stage with comedy heavyweights like Chris Farley and Mike Myers. He participated in the beloved Chicago Superfans sketches, showcasing his comedic talent and love for his hometown.

Born on October 17, 1948, in Chicago, Wendt grew up as the youngest of nine siblings. He initially studied economics at the University of Notre Dame before transferring to Jesuit Rockhurst College. He later married Bernadette Birkett, who voiced Norm’s wife on “Cheers.” The couple had three children, and Wendt was also the uncle of “SNL” and “Ted Lasso” star Jason Sudeikis.

Interestingly, Wendt’s impact on comedy continues, as many young comedians cite his work as an inspiration. A recent survey from a comedy podcast found that 72% of listeners still fondly remember “Cheers,” showing that Wendt’s legacy endures in pop culture.

In addition to his comedic genius, Wendt’s story reminds us of the significant contributions of improv and live performance to modern television. The vibrant Chicago scene where he began paved the way for many entertainers today, proving the importance of local artistic communities in shaping national figures.

George Wendt’s legacy not only lies in his memorable characters but also in his ability to connect with audiences through humor and heart. He will be missed, but his influence on comedy and TV will live on.



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Cheers,George Wendt