NEW YORK — George Wendt, the beloved actor known for his Everyman charm and unforgettable portrayal of Norm Peterson on the classic 1980s television comedy "Cheers," has died at the age of 76. His family announced that he passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home early Tuesday morning.
In a heartfelt statement, Wendt's family described him as a "doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him." They expressed their grief, stating, "He will be missed forever," while requesting privacy during this difficult time.
Although Wendt enjoyed a lengthy and varied career in film, television, and theater, he was indelibly linked to his role as Norm, the affable and beer-loving barfly on "Cheers." His performance earned him six consecutive Emmy Award nominations for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series from 1984 to 1989. The series, which showcased a colorful cast of characters in a Boston bar, starred notable names such as Ted Danson, Shelley Long, and Rhea Perlman. Over its eleven-year run, "Cheers" garnered numerous accolades, including 28 Emmy Awards out of an astounding 117 nominations, and would eventually give rise to the equally successful spinoff, "Frasier."
Initially, Wendt approached his audition for "Cheers" with skepticism. He recounted that his agent conveyed it as a minor role with only a single line—"beer." However, the creators saw something in him, and he was offered the richer character of Norm, who became an audience favorite.
"Cheers" premiered on September 30, 1982, and faced a rocky first season with low ratings until NBC president Brandon Tartikoff championed the show. Over the years, as television landscape changed, Wendt's character became synonymous with comfort and camaraderie, with fans greeting him with a warm "Norm!" upon his entrance, cementing his legacy in television history.
Following the series' conclusion in 1993, Wendt ventured into several projects, including a brief titular role in "The George Wendt Show" and guest appearances on shows like "The Ghost Whisperer" and "Portlandia." His comedic versatility also found a platform on "Saturday Night Live," where he engaged in beloved sketches surrounding Chicago culture.
Despite the ups and downs of his television career, Wendt found a fulfilling path in theater, performing in Broadway productions such as "Hairspray," "Art," and "Elf." He even ventured on national tours of classic plays like "12 Angry Men" and David Mamet's "Lakeboat." Wendt once humorously reflected on his transition from television to stage, saying he felt he had overstayed his welcome in TV, but discovered a better fit in theater.
An interesting aspect of Wendt's career was his association with the jovial spirit of Santa Claus; he portrayed the character in various productions including the stage musical "Elf" and the TV movie "Santa Baby." Known for his wit, Wendt commented, "I think it just proves that if you stay fat enough and get old enough, the offers start rolling in," showcasing his light-hearted demeanor.
A native of Chicago, Wendt’s early life laid the foundation for his comedic talents. He attended Campion High School, a Catholic boarding school, before transferring to Rockhurst University, where he graduated with a degree in economics. He later honed his craft with the renowned Second City improvisational comedy troupe, a breeding ground for many accomplished comedians.
In addition to acting, Wendt had a long-standing passion for beer, culminating in his co-authored book, "Drinking With George: A Barstool Professional's Guide to Beer." This semi-autobiographical piece offered humorous insights into beer culture along with lighthearted anecdotes. He had a unique knack for relating comedy to everyday experiences, always grounded in his perspective as the quintessential American Everyman.
Wendt is survived by his wife, Bernadette Birkett, a fellow Second City alum who voiced Norm's unseen wife, Vera, on "Cheers," along with three children—Hilary, Joe, and Daniel—and two stepchildren, Joshua and Andrew. In tribute to his impact on the entertainment community, National Comedy Center Executive Director Journey Gunderson remarked, "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."
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