George Wendt — the man behind Cheers’ barstool legend Norm Peterson — has died at 76, peacefully in his sleep at home, according to The Washington Post. Cue the collective “Noooooorm!”
The iconic actor, who appeared in every single episode of the classic sitcom, passed away just as fans were quietly marking the 32nd anniversary of the show’s finale. Talk about timing.
Wendt, who made the beer-loving Norm one of TV’s most lovable regulars, racked up six Emmy nominations and a lifetime of barstool shout-outs. His simple entrance was a punchline in itself — and America never stopped laughing.
He started out at Chicago’s Second City improv (yep, same comedy goldmine that gave us Tina Fey and Steve Carell), where he met his wife of 46 years, Bernadette Birkett.
Beyond Cheers, George popped up in MASH*, Seinfeld, SNL, and even played a Santa-type in Elf: The Musical on Broadway. He wasn’t just Norm — he was everywhere.
And yes, fun fact: Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis is his nephew. Comedy clearly runs in the family.
The tributes are pouring in from fans and stars alike. His family called him “a devoted husband, loving father, and true friend,” per The Sun.
One final round for Norm. TV just got a little less cozy.