George Wendt: A Tribute to the Beloved ‘Cheers’ Icon

George Wendt, the actor renowned for his portrayal of Norm Peterson on the classic sitcom Cheers, passed away on May 20, 2025, at the age of 76. His death was confirmed by his publicist, Melissa Nathan, who stated that Wendt died peacefully in his sleep at his Los Angeles home.

🎭 A Career Defined by Norm Peterson

Born on October 17, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, George Robert Wendt Jr. embarked on his acting journey after studying at Rockhurst University and performing with Chicago’s famed Second City comedy troupe . He gained widespread recognition for his role as Norm Peterson, the affable and beer-loving accountant, on Cheers, which aired from 1982 to 1993. Wendt’s portrayal of Norm earned him six consecutive nominations for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

Beyond Cheers, Wendt’s career spanned television, film, and theater. He appeared in films such as Fletch (1985), The Little Rascals (1994), and Sandy Wexler (2017). On television, he had guest roles on shows like Frasier, The Simpsons, and Family Guy. In 2008, he showcased his versatility by portraying Edna Turnblad in the Broadway production of Hairspray.

🏆 Personal Life and Family

In 1978, Wendt married actress Bernadette Birkett, who voiced his character’s unseen wife, Vera, on Cheers. The couple had three children: Hilary, Joe, and Daniel . Wendt was also the uncle of actor Jason Sudeikis, who has spoken fondly of his late uncle, describing him as a warm, fun, and kind individual who greatly influenced his decision to pursue acting.

🕊️ Tributes and Legacy

Following his passing, tributes poured in from co-stars and colleagues. Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, and Kelsey Grammer expressed their sorrow and fond memories of working with Wendt. Jason Sudeikis honored his late uncle at a charity event, wearing a jersey with Wendt’s name and age, and reminisced about the influence Wendt had on his career .

Wendt’s portrayal of Norm Peterson left an indelible mark on television history, and his legacy continues to inspire actors and fans alike. His ability to bring humor and heart to his performances made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.