LOS ANGELES, CA – George Wendt, the beloved actor best known for his iconic role as Norm Peterson on the long-running sitcom Cheers, passed away on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at his home in Los Angeles. He was 76. Wendt’s death coincidentally occurred 32 years to the day after the final episode of Cheers aired, marking the end of an era for fans of the affable bar regular.

• A Beloved Icon Passes: George Wendt, the acclaimed actor who famously portrayed Norm Peterson on Cheers, has died at age 76, exactly 32 years after the show’s finale.
• The Enduring Power of Norm: Wendt’s portrayal of Norm, a beloved regular at the Cheers bar, became a cultural touchstone, earning him Emmy nominations and solidifying his place in TV history.
• A Rich Career Beyond Cheers: While Norm was iconic, Wendt’s career spanned various TV shows, films, and his roots in the Second City comedy troupe, showcasing his diverse talent.

Saying Goodbye to an Icon: George Wendt, TV’s Beloved Norm, Dies at 76

The world of television mourns the passing of George Wendt, the beloved actor best known for his iconic portrayal of Norm Peterson on the classic sitcom Cheers. Wendt, 76, died in his sleep at his Los Angeles home on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, a poignant coincidence as it marked exactly 32 years since the Cheers series finale aired.

The Enduring Legacy of Norm Peterson

For 11 seasons, from 1982 to 1993, George Wendt was the comforting, beer-guzzling heart of Cheers. His character, Norm Peterson, an everyman accountant frequently down on his luck, became synonymous with the show’s theme of finding a place “where everybody knows your name.” Every time Norm walked through the door of the Boston bar, he was greeted with a resounding, collective “NORM!” – a ritual that became a cultural touchstone.

Wendt’s genius lay in making a running joke feel both familiar and fresh. He imbued Norm with a weary charm, using subtle gestures and his distinctive delivery to suggest an entire life outside the bar – a life filled with unseen struggles and a wife, Vera, who existed almost entirely off-screen. The well-crafted one-liners provided by the Cheers writing staff, exchanged with the barkeeps, further solidified Norm’s identity as a philosophical survivor, always returning for another round despite life’s constant kicks. His performance earned him six Emmy nominations and cemented Cheers‘ place in television history.

A Life Beyond the Bar Stool

While Norm Peterson was his most recognized role, George Wendt’s career extended far beyond the walls of Cheers. A proud alumnus of Chicago’s Second City comedy troupe, his background in improvisation and comedic timing translated seamlessly to his various roles. He made guest appearances on numerous shows, including the Cheers spinoff Frasier, The Simpsons, Saturday Night Live, Hot in Cleveland, The Twilight Zone, Fresh Off The Boat, and George Lopez. His film credits include Fletch, Forever Young, and Man of the House. He also starred in his own short-lived sitcom, The George Wendt Show, and even competed as Moose on The Masked Singer.

Wendt remained connected to his most famous character throughout his life, embracing Norm’s popularity with humor and humility, often reprising the role for cameos and reunions. He often credited his Midwestern upbringing for his grounded approach to fame.

A Fond Farewell

George Wendt is survived by his wife of over 40 years, actress Bernadette Birkett, and their three children. A representative for Wendt released a statement saying, “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”

Wendt’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of fans who welcomed Norm into their homes for years. His ability to create a character so relatable and endearing from a simple premise is a testament to his talent, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to resonate for generations. He was, truly, a man whose name everybody knew.