George Wendt, beloved for his portrayal of Norm Peterson on the iconic sitcom “Cheers,” has passed away at the age of 76. Wendt, who garnered six Emmy nominations for his role, was a fixture on the show, appearing in all 275 episodes that aired from 1982 to 1993.
Born on October 17, 1948, in Chicago, Wendt began his career in comedy with the renowned Second City theater. He made appearances on several popular television shows, including “M*A*S*H,” “Taxi,” and “Soap” before landing his breakout role in “Cheers.”
Wendt’s endearing character, Norm, resonated with audiences as he famously embodied the everyman, often seen at the bar enjoying a cold beer. In a 2021 interview, reflecting on his first audition for “Cheers,” he humorously noted that he needed to look like a man who just wanted “another beer,” indicating just how closely he identified with the character.
His recent appearance at the “Cheers Reunion” panel during the ATX TV Festival in June 2023 exemplified his enduring connection to fans and the legacy of the series.
This news marks the loss of a cherished figure in television history, remembered for his humor and warmth both on and off the screen. Wendt’s contributions to comedy are sure to be celebrated for years to come.