George Wendt, best known for his role as Norm on the hit show Cheers has passed away at 76.
According to reports, Wendt passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home. His rep said in a statement,
“George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him.” The statement continued, “He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”
The Chicago native got his start in acting during the 1970s with the famed improvisational comedy troupe, Second City. His career would shortly take off after he appeared on Saturday Night Live. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Wendt appeared in numerous movies including Dreamscape, Fletch, Never Say Die, and Spice World. He also appeared in Michael Jackson’s 1991 video for “Black or White” as Macaulay Culkin’s angry father.
Although he has had a long list of movie and television show credits, Wendt was best known as Norm Peterson in Cheers, a role he played for 11 seasons. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.