George Wendt Death: 'Cheers' Co-Stars Speak Out
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
George Wendt, beloved for his role as barfly Norm Peterson on the iconic NBC sitcom Cheers, has died at age 76. Wendt passed away at home, his family confirmed Tuesday, prompting an outpouring of tributes from his Cheers co-stars and Hollywood peers.
The Emmy-nominated actor played Norm for 11 seasons from 1982 to 1993, delivering one of the most recognizable catchphrases in television history each time he entered the fictional Boston bar: a chorus of patrons yelling, "Norm!"
"I am devastated to hear that Georgie is no longer with us," said Ted Danson, who starred alongside Wendt as bartender Sam Malone. "It is going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie."
Rhea Perlman, who played waitress Carla Tortelli, remembered Wendt as "the sweetest, kindest man I ever met." She recalled how their characters' routine physical comedy bonded them. "As Carla, I was often standing next to him, as Norm always took the same seat at the end of the bar... I'll miss him more than words can say," she said.
George Wendt Cause of Death: What We Know
Wendt's cause of death has not been officially disclosed. His family said he died peacefully in his sleep, at home early Tuesday morning and was described by loved ones as "a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him."
Kelsey Grammer, from left, Rhea Perlman, Ted Danson, John Ratzenberger and George Wendt at 75th Primetime Emmy Awards on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024.
Kelsey Grammer, from left, Rhea Perlman, Ted Danson, John Ratzenberger and George Wendt at 75th Primetime Emmy Awards on Monday, Jan. 15, 2024.
Chris Pizzello/AP Photo
A Television Icon and Fan Favorite
Wendt earned six consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series during his run on Cheers. The show itself won 28 Emmys and became one of the most acclaimed series in television history.
"George's portrayal of Norm Peterson made millions laugh and feel seen," said Deadline. "The comfort of his presence at the end of the bar was a cornerstone of what made 'Cheers' a staple in American homes for over a decade".
His nephew, actor Jason Sudeikis, had frequently acknowledged Wendt's influence on his own comedic career.
Who Is George Wendt's Wife?
Wendt is survived by his wife, actress Bernadette Birkett. The couple met in Chicago at Second City, the famed comedy troupe, and married in 1978. Birkett herself was the voice of Norm's often referenced but never seen wife, Vera. The couple had three children together: Hilary, Joe and Daniel.
Reunions and Legacy
Wendt reunited with his Cheers co-stars, including Danson, Perlman, Kelsey Grammer (Frasier Crane), and John Ratzenberger (Cliff Clavin), during a special tribute segment at the 2024 Emmy Awards. Standing on a replica of the show's bar set, the cast reflected on their bond and enduring cultural impact.
"Being together brings back some great memories of a show we're all very proud of," said Grammer at the event.
"He was truly one of a kind," Perlman said. "What a guy."
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