George Wendt in Cheers
George Wendt, best known for his role as the beloved Norm in Cheers, has died at the age of 76.
The actor starred in all 275 episodes of the classic sitcom between 1982 and 1993, with his character infamous for the crowd greeting of “Norm!” as he entered the bar.
Wendt passed away in his sleep on Tuesday, and although a cause of death has yet to be confirmed, he was pictured visiting a dialysis clinic late last year.
Former co-stars came out in force to pay tribute to the actor after the news broke.
Ted Danson (Sam Malone): “I am devastated to hear that Georgie is no longer with us. I am sending all my love to [Wendt’s wife] Bernadette and the children. It is going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie.”
John Ratzenberger (Cliff Clavin): “I’m heartbroken to hear about the passing of my friend George Wendt. For 11 years on Cheers, we shared a stage, a lot of laughs, and a front-row seat to one of television’s most beloved friendships. George brought Norm to life with a subtle brilliance — the kind that made it look easy. That was his gift.”
Rhea Perlman (Carla Tortelli): “The sweetest, kindest man I ever met… It was impossible not to like him. As Carla, I was often standing next to him, as Norm always took the same seat at the end of the bar, which made it easy to grab him and beat the crap out of him at least once a week. I loved doing it, and he loved pretending it didn’t hurt. What a guy! I’ll miss him more than words can say.”
Kelsey Grammer (Frasier Crane): “I believe mourning is a private matter. But I liked George a lot. He was beloved by millions.”
Cheers network NBC: “Watching him walk through that door and head to his barstool, America couldn’t wait to say hi to Norm every Thursday night. George Wendt was an essential part of the genius of Cheers and he will be missed by the millions who loved him.
“Norm was all of us. A regular guy who finished his hardworking day wanting to be surrounded by friends and a frosty beverage. We’re proud to raise a glass and toast a true comedy legend.”
Wendt is survived by wife Bernadette and their three children.
