George Wendt, most famous for playing Norm Peterson in the iconic sitcom “Cheers,” passed away on Tuesday at the age of 76.
In a statement to the New York Post, Wendt’s family confirmed that the actor “died peacefully in his sleep while at home” on Tuesday morning.
“George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him,” a representative for the Wendt family told the outlet. “He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”
Wendt started his career on the Chicago improv circuit in the 1970’s, eventually becoming a comedian at The Second City.
He ultimately transitioned to television acting and after a number of guest appearances, Wendt landed the role that would come to define him when he was cast as Norm Peterson, a loyal patron at the Bull and Finch Pub on NBC’s “Cheers.”
His regular catchphrase of “Afternoon everybody” made Wendt’s character one of the most beloved throughout the series’ 11-year run. The actor earned six consecutive Emmy nominations for his work on the series and ultimately appeared in all 275 episodes of the popular TV program.
Wendt starred in the series — which centered on the “regulars ” at the Bull and Finch — alongside Ted Danson, 77, Rhea Perlman, 77, John Ratzenberger, 78, Kelsey Grammer, 70, Woody Harrelson, 63, the late Kirstie Alley and more.
After the series concluded in 1993, Wendt reprised his role as Norm Peterson in the short-lived “Cheers” spinoff “The Tortellis,” as well as another spinoff of the bar series, “Frasier.”
Wendt later moved to CBS to lead his own sitcom titled, “The George Wendt Show,” in which he played a radio host car mechanic. The series was ultimately scrapped after a brief run.
He also starred as himself on “Seinfeld” and “The Larry Sanders Show,” and had recurring roles on shows such as “The Naked Truth” and “Sabrina the Teenage Witch.”
The National Comedy Center addressed Wendt’s legacy and death in a statement to the New Your Post
“From his early days with The Second City to his iconic role as Norm on Cheers, George Wendt’s work showcased how comedy can create indelible characters that feel like family. Over the course of 11 seasons, he brought warmth and humor to one of television’s most beloved roles. His work is proudly featured in the National Comedy Center, and we honor his legacy and the joy he brought to generations of fans,” the center’s executive director, Journey Gunderson, told the outlet.
