‘Cheers’ star George Wendt dies at 76
(Gray News) - Actor and comedian George Wendt, known for playing Norm on the beloved sitcom “Cheers,” has died, according to several reports.
His family said Wendt died peacefully in his sleep on Tuesday morning, according to a statement from his publicist.
“George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him, ” the statement said. “He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”
Wendt began as a comedian at Chicago’s The Second City, according to Variety. He spent six years with the renowned improv troupe before moving to television.
His most known role was that of the lovable barfly, Norm, on “Cheers.” His portrayal of the beer-loving ant earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations for outstanding ing actor.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, he was in every episode of the show during its 11-year run from 1982 to 1993. His regular greeting of “Afternoon, everybody” became a staple beloved by fans.
Wendt made appearances in several films such as “Dreamscape,” “Fletch,” “Never Say Die,” And “Spice World.” He was also a regular on Saturday Night Live in the 1990s, and appeared in the recurring Chicago Superfans sketch along with Chris Farley, Mike Myers and Robert Smigel.
According to Associated Press, Wendt would later carve second career onstage. He played Edna Turnblad in Broadway’s “Hairspray” starting in 2007 and Santa Claus in the Broadway musical rendition of Elf in 2017.
Wendt also started in productions of “12 Angry Men,” “Death of a Salesman,” and “The Odd Couple.”
Copyright 2025 Gray Local Media, Inc. All rights reserved. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
