Hollywood is mourning the loss of beloved actor George Wendt, best known for his iconic role as Norm Peterson on the classic NBC sitcom Cheers. Wendt passed away peacefully in his sleep at home early Tuesday morning, May 20, his family confirmed.
“George was a devoted family man, a cherished friend, and a trusted confidant to all who knew him,” a family representative said in a statement to the BBC. “He will be missed deeply and forever.”
Wendt rose to national fame for his portrayal of the beer-loving Norm, appearing in every one of the show’s 275 episodes from 1982 to 1993. His performance earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
Ted Danson, who starred opposite Wendt as bartender Sam Malone, expressed his grief in a statement to the New York Post.
“I’m heartbroken to hear Georgie is gone,” Danson said. “My thoughts are with Bernadette and the kids. It’s going to take me a long time to process this. I love you, Georgie.”
John Ratzenberger, who played Cliff Clavin on Cheers, reflected on their long friendship and collaboration.
“For 11 years on Cheers, we shared the stage, endless laughs, and a truly special bond,” he told ABC News. “George brought Norm to life with a quiet brilliance. He made it look effortless — that was his genius.”
Wendt was last seen publicly in Los Angeles in late January, photographed using a cane as he exited a car with his wife. Though no official cause of death has been released, reports suggest he had struggled in recent years with health issues related to his weight. He was previously hospitalized for chest pains and underwent coronary bypass surgery.
Concerns about Wendt’s health grew after his appearance at a Cheers cast reunion during the ATX TV Festival in June 2023. The event, held to commemorate 30 years since the series finale, sparked concern among fans who noted he didn’t look well.
“He looks like he needs to see a doctor for jaundice,” one commenter wrote online. Another simply asked, “Is George okay?” while a third remarked, “Good lord, George Wendt looks absolutely awful.”
Beyond Cheers, Wendt built a diverse career in film and television dating back to the late 1970s. His charm and everyman warmth left a lasting impression on generations of viewers.
George Wendt leaves behind a legacy of laughter, warmth, and a barstool at Cheers that will never be filled.
