George Wendt, Beloved ‘Cheers’ Actor, Dies Peacefully at 76
Entertainment is stunned by the passing away of George Wendt, the most recognized actor because of his iconic act of Norm Peterson in the old NBC sitcom Cheers. Wendt passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 20, 2025, at 76 years old, his publicist Melissa Nathan’s statement said.
The news, revealed to the public the next day, surprised co-stars and friends as completely as it did viewers. Wendt passed away on the 32nd anniversary of the Cheers series finale, fitting coincidence for a man so ingrained in one of the greatest TV comedies of all time.
Melissa Nathan provided the official word in the statement. She characterized Wendt as a “devoted family man, popular friend, and confidant to those who were lucky enough to have known him.” She added that the actor’s family also confirmed he passed away peacefully at home and requested privacy during their grieving time. “He will be remembered indefinitely,” she said.
A Legacy of Laughter
George Wendt was also a regular presence as Norm, the affable, beer-drinking tavern fixture whose entrance at Cheers always invoked the audience’s collective shout: “Norm!” His charm and timing sense cemented him one of television’s most beloved characters of the 1980s and early 1990s.
In his prolonged career of such numerous years, Wendt had appeared in numerous TV series and movies, but the character that he enacted in Cheers is the one which has become eternal in the pop culture. His show lasted for 11 years and received six Primetime Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. His naturability on camera and good-natured personality caused him not only to be a fan favorite among the masses, but also a favorite among the professionals in the industry.
A Star Remembered
Hollywood celebrities, co-stars, and Twitter followers condoled the news of his death. So many people recalled not only Wendt’s talent, but also his warmth, humanity, and sense of brotherhood he showed on every set he stepped onto.
Co-star Melissa Joan Hart of Wendt for his Sabrina the Teenage Witch guest star turns posted a warm tribute on social media:
“Heaven just became slightly funnier with #GeorgeWendt. I enjoyed having Cheer’s on to watch and knew that I was in wonderful company when he was with us on the set. He was professional, warm, and kind. Our cast and crew were blessed to have him join us each time. Rest in peace!”
Eric Allan Kramer, one of the other performers who became familiar with Wendt in the early days of his acting career, remembered meeting him for the first time on the set of Cheers.
One of the nicest, smartest and funniest guys I’ve ever met… what a gift of a performer… first to place a beer in my hand at the end of a night,” he blogged. “We chatted and chuckled – thanks for the lessons and memories. Cheers, indeed.”
Comedian and Comedy Central Roast contributor Jeffrey Ross Lifschultz also had a heartwarming memory to impart.
“I was able to catch up with George Wendt some good time last year at the Big Slick KC night. He was not in the best health, but he managed to laugh thousands out of their seats anyway. He even performed a bit on ‘Da Bears’ with Jason Sudeikis and Patrick Mahomes – a night to remember.”
A Gentle Soul Off-Screen
Wendt was a plain, humble guy despite being well-known. Colleagues and co-workers would remark on how friendly and accessible he was, always ready to help newcomers and foster others. His folksiness and Midwestern background made him lovable and well-liked.
Wendt loved to act and stayed busy in television and theater throughout his life, doing community service, charity performances, and benefit performances. One of those was the Big Slick charity benefit in Kansas City, where he kept performing on a regular basis for the Children’s Mercy Hospital.
More Than a Character
For millions of viewers, Wendt was much more than a TV actor – he was a symbol of comfort and laughter. His portrayal of Norm felt genuine, like the friend you’d want to see at the bar after a long day. That connection made his character timeless and beloved even decades after the show ended.
As his co-stars, his fans, and fellow comedians meet up to celebrate the history he left behind, it is safe to say George Wendt’s influence reached far, far beyond the confines of the television screen. His comedic timing, his sense of humor, his spirit of generosity, and his contribution to American television will never be lost, and his passing will be deeply felt across the entertainment industry.
A Final Toast
And with tributes continuing to flow in, one thing is certain: George Wendt’s life was the source of joy for millions. From a clinking beer mug on Cheers to an off-camera emotional moment, he possessed a talent for making us laugh and being heard. Though he’s no longer with us, the voice of “Norm!” will live with us always as a reminder of the joy he brought into our living rooms.
Rest in peace, George. Wherever you are, it’s safe to say — everyone still knows your name.
