George Wendt, who gained immense fame for his unforgettable portrayal of the lovable barfly Norm Peterson on the iconic sitcom Cheers, has sadly passed away at the age of 76. His remarkable contribution to television will be remembered by fans for years to come.

The news of Wendt’s passing was confirmed by his publicist, who released a heartfelt statement: “George was a devoted family man, a cherished friend, and a confidant to all who were fortunate enough to know him. His absence will be felt deeply. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.”

Born and raised in the vibrant city of Chicago, Wendt developed his comedic talents as part of the renowned Second City improv troupe during the 1970s. After spending six years with the group, he transitioned into acting, initially landing minor roles in various films and television shows. His early experiences laid a solid foundation for his future success.

Wendt’s life took a significant turn when he secured the role of Norm on Cheers, which premiered in September 1982. Drawing on the skills he had mastered at Second City, he was able to create an authentic character that resonated with audiences. He later shared, “You make it sound real. If people stop believing you, you’re just telling jokes.” This approach became the cornerstone of his performance, as he aimed to make Norm relatable rather than overly comedic.

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Although Cheers initially struggled to capture a large audience, it quickly transformed into a television phenomenon. The show consistently ranked among the most popular comedies, earning numerous accolades throughout its run. Wendt received six consecutive Emmy nominations for his portrayal of Norm, although he never won the coveted award.

Despite being part of a stellar ensemble cast that included acclaimed actors like Ted Danson, Kelsey Grammer, and Woody Harrelson, Wendt’s performance stood out. His interpretation of Norm, a character who was both gruff and endearing, won the hearts of fans across multiple generations. Every time his character entered the bar, the enthusiastic shouts of “Norm!” echoed, creating a sense of camaraderie that resonated with viewers at home, who eagerly awaited his appearances.

Discover George Wendt’s Post-‘Cheers’ Career Highlights

Throughout the years, George Wendt remained modest about his success on Cheers. In a 2021 interview with Chicago Magazine, he remarked, “Norm is just me with better writing. There were countless actors who could have delivered the incredible lines I was fortunate to receive every Wednesday morning.” His humility and genuine appreciation for his craft have always been evident.

READ MORE: Reflecting on the Final Episode of ‘Cheers’ and Its Lasting Impact

After the conclusion of Cheers in 1993, Wendt’s career continued to flourish as he secured various roles. He made memorable guest appearances on shows such as Columbo and Seinfeld, lent his voice to characters on The Simpsons and Family Guy, and even starred in his own short-lived series, The George Wendt Show.

Wendt also made his mark in the history of Saturday Night Live through his recurring role in the beloved sketch, Bill Swerski’s Superfans. Known for the hilarious “Da Bears” catchphrase and unwavering support for coach Mike Ditka, Wendt, alongside Mike Myers, Chris Farley, and Robert Smigel, formed a quartet of Chicago sports fans that had audiences roaring with laughter.

Watch George Wendt’s Iconic Moments on ‘Saturday Night Live’