Cheers actor George Wendt has died at the age of 76
Tributes have been flowing in from celebrities for the beloved actor George Wendt, with heartfelt words from his former Cheers colleague Ted Danson. Reflecting on the loss, Danson shared, “I am devastated to hear that Georgie is no longer with us.”
Speaking to PEOPLE, The Good Place star offered condolences saying, “I am sending all my love to Bernadette and the children. It is going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie.”
John Ratzenberger, another Cheers alum who portrayed Cliff Clavin, shared his emotions: “For eleven years on Cheers, we shared a stage, a lot of laughs, and a front-row seat to one of television’s most beloved friendships,” he remarked. “George brought Norm to life with a subtle brilliance – the kind that made it look easy. That was his gift.
“He was a true craftsman – humble, hilarious, and full of heart,” he added, recognising Norm’s real-life counterpart. “What you saw on screen was exactly who he was off screen with impeccable comedic timing and a deep loyalty to those he loved. I’ll miss our conversations and the quiet moments of friendship that meant the most.”
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Reflecting on their time working together on Sabrina The Teenage Witch, Melissa Joan Hart expressed her sentiment through social media, informing her followers, “Heaven just got a little funnier with #GeorgeWendt. It was a thrill to work beside him on #SabrinatheTeenageWitch for a handful of episodes.”, reports the Mirror.
“I was a big #Cheers fan and knew I was among one of the best when he was on set. He was warm, professional and kind and our cast and crew were gifted with his presence every time. Rest in peace! #GodBlesstheFunnyPeople (Sorry for the grainy photo).”
Following the news that George Wendt, beloved for his role as the endearing beer-lover Norm Peterson on the iconic sitcom ‘Cheers’, passed away at 76, tributes have been pouring in. The actor passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home on Tuesday.
A statement from a representative to the Hollywood Reporter read: “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever.
“The family has requested privacy during this time.”
George had previously shared heartfelt thoughts about the profound impact the NBC series had on his life, once remarking in an interview: “I was lucky to be part of something that became such a beloved part of people’s lives.”
Within the walls of the Cheers bar, Norm’s arrival was always announced with a chorus of “Afternoon/evening everybody!”
And the patrons replying with a resounding call of his name, “Norm!” making him an instant hit with viewers.
Cheers itself became a critically acclaimed sensation, garnering 117 Emmy nominations and bagging 28 wins, including four for Outstanding Comedy Series. George’s performance netted him six consecutive Emmy nods for his portrayal of the much-loved Norm Peterson.
He was a stalwart of the show, featuring in every episode until its conclusion in May 1993. George made an unexpected appearance on stage with his Cheers co-stars at the Emmy Awards in January 2024, with Ted Danson and Kelsey Grammer among those present for the surprise reunion.
Before his time on Cheers, George had guest appearances on popular programmes such as Taxi and M*A*S*H.
After the immense success of Cheers, George headlined his own CBS sitcom in 1995. However, the series was axed after just eight episodes.
He also took on various roles in television, including parts in Sabrina the Teenage Witch and Columbo. George is survived by his wife, Bernadette Birkett, who provided the voice for his unseen sitcom wife Vera on Cheers.
The couple have three children together, one daughter and two sons.