Actor George Wendt, renowned for his role as Norm on the sitcom Cheers, has passed away.

**George Wendt, Beloved Cheers Star, Passes Away at 76**

**Meta Description:** George Wendt, famed for his role as Norm Peterson in Cheers, has died at 76. Remembering his legacy and impact on television.

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**George Wendt, Beloved Cheers Star, Passes Away at 76**

George Wendt, the actor renowned for his portrayal of Norm Peterson in the classic sitcom Cheers, has passed away at the age of 76. His family announced that he died peacefully in his sleep early Tuesday morning. They described him as a devoted family man and a cherished friend, stating, “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever.”

Wendt’s character, an affable and beer-loving barfly, became a beloved figure in the 1980s, earning him six consecutive Emmy nominations for Best Supporting Actor. Cheers, set in a Boston bar where “everybody knows your name,” became a cultural phenomenon, with fans famously shouting “Norm!” whenever he entered the bar.

The sitcom featured a stellar cast, including Ted Danson, Shelley Long, Rhea Perlman, Kelsey Grammer, John Ratzenberger, Kirstie Alley, and Woody Harrelson. Cheers not only captivated audiences but also spawned the successful spin-off Frasier and garnered 117 Emmy nominations, winning 28.

Wendt appeared in all 273 episodes of Cheers, with his signature line, “Afternoon, everybody,” becoming a fan favorite. Beyond his television success, Wendt was also a prominent figure on Broadway, starring in productions such as Art, Hairspray, and Elf. Before his rise to fame, he spent six years with Chicago’s renowned Second City improvisation troupe.

In a candid interview with GQ, Wendt shared his initial doubts about landing the role that would define his career. “My agent said: ‘It’s a small role, honey. It’s one line. Actually, it’s one word.’ The word was ‘beer.’ I was having a hard time believing I was right for the role of ‘the guy who looked like he wanted a beer,'” he recalled. Ultimately, he was offered a more substantial role as a character who never left the bar.

Born in Chicago as one of nine children, Wendt graduated with a degree in economics. He married actress Bernadette Birkett in 1978, who voiced Norm’s wife in Cheers but never appeared on screen. The couple had three children, and Wendt’s legacy continues through his nephew, Jason Sudeikis, the star of Ted Lasso.

George Wendt’s contributions to television and theater will be remembered fondly by fans and colleagues alike, marking the end of an era for a beloved figure in entertainment.

**FAQ**

**What was George Wendt best known for?**
George Wendt was best known for his role as Norm Peterson in the iconic sitcom Cheers, where he became a beloved character known for his humor and charm. 

Vimal Sharma

Vimal Sharma

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Vimal Sharma

Vimal Sharma

A dedicated blog writer with a passion for capturing the pulse of viral news, Vimal covers a diverse range of topics, including international and national affairs, business trends, cryptocurrency, and technological advancements. Known for delivering timely and compelling content, this writer brings a sharp perspective and a commitment to keeping readers informed and engaged.

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