Cheers Actor George Wendt Dies Peacefully at 76
Actor George Wendt, Known as Norm on Cheers, Dies at 76
George Wendt, the actor loved for playing Norm Peterson on the hit TV show Cheers, has died at the age of 76. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Tuesday, May 20, 2025.
His warm smile, lovable character, and easy humor made him a favorite in homes across the world.
George Wendt, famous for his starring role in the long-running NBC sitcom "Cheers," is dead at age 76. RIP pic.twitter.com/R3kIBcENUI
— Theresa Longo Fans (@BarkJack_) May 20, 2025
Norm from Cheers Became a TV Legend
Wendt became a household name as Norm, the friendly regular at the bar on Cheers. His entrance line — “Afternoon, everybody!” — was always followed by the bar yelling “Norm!” It became one of the most iconic greetings in television history.
Cheers aired from 1982 to 1993, and George appeared in every single episode. His role earned him six Emmy nominations for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.
A Funny Man with Chicago Roots
George was born in Chicago in 1948. He started his comedy journey with the famous group The Second City. From there, he got roles on TV and in movies. But his big break came when he landed the role of Norm on Cheers.
He also appeared on Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons, Fletch, Forever Young, and even had his own short comedy show, The George Wendt Show.
????????????????Farewell to Norm. George Wendt, beloved for his role as Norm Peterson on Cheers, has passed away at 76. The Emmy-nominated actor, known for his iconic barstool banter, died peacefully in his sleep at home. His Cheers co-stars, including Ted Danson & Rhea Perlman, shared… pic.twitter.com/agEvwmQWM2
— GoodMorningRooster (@RoosterGM) May 21, 2025
A Loving Husband, Father, and Uncle to Jason Sudeikis
George is survived by his wife, Bernadette Birkett, and their three children. He met Bernadette during his time at The Second City. He was also the uncle of actor Jason Sudeikis, known for Ted Lasso.
His family described him as a kind, caring man who always put his family first. They said he was a great friend and a loving father who will be missed deeply.
Fans Remember a Comedy Legend
'Cheers' actor George Wendt dies at 76
— Blue Owl (@BlueOwlHoots) May 20, 2025
Actor George Wendt, best known for his role as Norm Peterson on the beloved NBC sitcom "Cheers," died on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at the age of 76. He passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/FQ8sjXzWHW
George Wendt’s warm humor touched the hearts of millions. Whether it was on Cheers or in other roles, he made people smile.
