**Cheers Star George Wendt Dies at 76, Remembered for Beloved Role as Norm Peterson**
George Wendt, the American actor who became a beloved television mainstay as Norm Peterson in the acclaimed sitcom “Cheers,” has died at the age of 76. His family announced that Wendt passed away peacefully in his sleep at home early on Tuesday morning, requesting privacy as they mourn his loss. Wendt leaves behind a legacy as a warm family man, cherished friend, and a memorable figure in both television and theatre.
Wendt’s lengthy acting career encompassed numerous roles on stage and screen, yet it is his portrayal of the affable, beer-loving Norm Peterson that remains his most enduring achievement. Joining the cast of “Cheers” in 1982, Wendt’s character quickly became a central figure in the world-famous Boston bar, winning over audiences with his laid-back humour and gentle warmth. Over the course of the show’s 11-season run, Wendt received six consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
The success of “Cheers” resonated well beyond its original broadcast, helping launch the careers of co-stars such as Ted Danson, Shelley Long, and Kelsey Grammer, and spawning the iconic spin-off “Frasier.” The show itself was celebrated with a remarkable 117 Emmy nominations and 28 wins—testament to its influence on American television comedy. Wendt, however, never anticipated such stardom. Reflecting on his audition, he once recounted being told the role was originally a humble one—just a single word, “beer”—before he was encouraged to read for a much more substantial part.
After “Cheers,” Wendt endeavoured to build upon his small-screen fame, starring in “The George Wendt Show” and making guest appearances in a variety of television series including “Portlandia,” “The Ghost Whisperer,” and “Harry’s Law.” Not one to confine himself to the screen, Wendt also developed a parallel career on the stage. His theatre credits are a testament to his versatility, with stints in Broadway productions such as “Art,” “Hairspray,” where he donned the iconic Edna Turnblad costume, and the festive musical “Elf.”
Known for his comedic talent, Wendt was also a prominent figure in Chicago’s celebrated Second City improv troupe prior to his television breakthrough. This background provided a foundation for his approachable, everyman screen presence. Alongside his television and stage endeavours, Wendt regularly returned to the Santa Claus role, portraying Father Christmas in productions including “Elf,” the TV movie “Santa Baby,” and even Disney’s “Santa Buddies.” Ever self-deprecating, he once joked that he landed these roles by “staying fat enough and getting old enough.”
Born and raised in Chicago, Wendt’s early years hinted at an unconventional path. He attended Catholic boarding school before enrolling at Notre Dame University, only to be expelled for rarely attending classes. Eventually, he completed his degree at Rockhurst University, majoring in economics—a far cry from his eventual vocation in comedy. It was his time at Second City that truly cemented his love for performance and humour, which would go on to shape a remarkable career.
In interviews, Wendt always maintained humility regarding his work, emphasising a measured approach to comedy. “My approach to comedy is usually not full-bore clownish,” he told the Associated Press. While some performers excelled at showboating, Wendt explained he preferred to find authenticity and subtlety in his performances—a quality that endeared him to generations of television viewers.
Outside of his career, Wendt found happiness in family life. He is survived by his wife, Bernadette Birkett—who provided the unseen voice of Norm’s wife, Vera, on “Cheers”—as well as his children Hilary, Joe, and Daniel, and stepchildren Joshua and Andrew. The couple’s connection on and off screen added an intimate touch for longtime fans of the sitcom.
Tributes have poured in from across the entertainment world. Journey Gunderson, executive director of the National Comedy Centre, praised Wendt’s ability to create endearing, relatable figures. “From his early days with The Second City to his iconic role as Norm on ‘Cheers’, George Wendt’s work showcased how comedy can create indelible characters that feel like family,” she said. For many, Wendt’s legacy will live on—through laughter, fond television memories, and the enduring greeting, “Norm!” every time he entered the bar where everybody knew his name.