George Wendt, the actor best known for his role as Norm Peterson on the hit TV comedy Cheers, has died at 76. His family reported that he passed away peacefully in his sleep at home.
Family Statement
Wendt’s family released a statement expressing their sorrow:
"George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him."
They also expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support during this difficult time and requested privacy.
Career Highlights
Wendt earned six consecutive Emmy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series from 1984 to 1989. Cheers centered around lovable losers in Boston’s Cheers bar, featuring an ensemble cast that included Ted Danson as Sam Malone and Shelley Long as Diane Chambers.
Auditioning for Cheers
In an interview with GQ last year, Wendt recalled auditioning for Cheers with little hope of landing the role. He remembered being told it was just one line – "beer" – but felt confident after reading through the script. The show premiered in September 1982 with low ratings but eventually became a massive hit after NBC president Brandon Tartikoff championed it.
Awards and Recognition
The show earned numerous awards and nominations throughout its run, including:
- 117 Emmy Award nominations
- 28 Emmy Award wins
After leaving Cheers in 1993, Wendt appeared alongside his castmates on The Tonight Show that night from Bull & Finch Pub in Boston.
Later Projects
Wendt pursued various projects outside of television, including roles in Broadway productions:
- Art (2007)
- Hairspray (2007)
- A Christmas Carol (2011)
- Scrooge (2012)
These holiday-themed plays allowed him to explore different characters beyond Norm Peterson, who had become synonymous with beer drinking.
Personal Life
Wendt’s long hours on set affected his family life, prompting them to move back to Chicago. He and his wife, Bernadette Birkett, sought to pursue their acting careers without external control, while also prioritizing quality time with their young children. Birkett supported Wendt’s aspirations, as she had always dreamed of being an actress herself.
George Wendt’s legacy as a beloved actor and family man will be remembered by many.
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