George Wendt, the acclaimed actor who gained fame for his portrayal of Norm Peterson on the hit NBC sitcom “Cheers,” has died due to cardiac arrest, according to his death certificate. The document also listed congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, and hypertension as contributing factors. Wendt’s family confirmed that he passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 17, at the age of 76.
Wendt’s character, Norm Peterson, was a beloved regular at the Boston bar where “Cheers” was set. His performance earned him six Emmy nominations for Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Wendt was a fixture on the show throughout its 11-season run from 1982 to 1993.
In 2024, Wendt made his final public appearances, including a reunion with his “Cheers” co-stars Ted Danson and Woody Harrelson on their podcast, “Where Everybody Knows Your Name.” Wendt’s career extended beyond “Cheers,” as he reprised his role as Norm Peterson in other shows and spinoffs, such as “The Tortellis” and “Frasier.” He also made guest appearances on shows like “The Simpsons,” “Family Guy,” and “Wings.”
Wendt’s last public appearance was in June 2024, where he appeared alongside his nephew, “Ted Lasso” star Jason Sudeikis, at the Big Slick Celebrity Weekend in Kansas City, Missouri. The event also featured comedian Robert Smigel and NFL stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, with whom Wendt participated in a comedy skit.
Following his death, Wendt’s family released a statement describing him as a “doting family man” and a “well-loved friend and confidant.” They requested privacy during this difficult time. Wendt’s co-stars also expressed their grief. Ted Danson shared his devastation at the news, sending his love to Wendt’s family. Rhea Perlman, who played Carla on “Cheers,” remembered Wendt as the “sweetest, kindest man” she ever met.
Wendt is survived by his wife, actress Bernadette Birkett, their children Hilary, Joe, and Daniel, and his stepchildren, Joshua and Andrew.