George Wendt, best known for his iconic role as Norm Peterson on the hit sitcom Cheers, has died at the age of 76. The beloved actor, who brought warmth, humor, and everyman charm to the beer-loving barfly, passed away leaving behind a rich legacy in American television and comedy.
Wendt starred in Cheers from its debut in 1982 until its finale in 1993, appearing in all 275 episodes. His performance as Norm – the friendly neighborhood accountant with a knack for witty one-liners and an endless love for beer – earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. His character’s entrance line, often met with a chorus of “Norm!” from fellow bar patrons, became one of the most recognizable moments in television history.
At the peak of the show’s popularity, Wendt reportedly earned $200,000 per episode, translating to approximately $5 million per season. Adjusted for inflation, that’s about $10 million per year in today’s dollars. At the time of his passing, Wendt’s estimated net worth stood at $25 million, a testament to his successful career across TV and film.
Outside of Cheers, Wendt had a diverse filmography, with roles in Fletch, Dreamscape, Gung Ho, House, Forever Young, Plain Clothes, Hostage for a Day, and Lakeboat. He was also known for his appearance on Saturday Night Live as Bob Swerski, the die-hard Chicago sports superfan, famously obsessed with “Da Bears” and “Coach Ditka.”
Raised on the South Side of Chicago, Wendt got his start in comedy at the renowned Second City improv troupe, where he honed the skills that would later make him a household name. His Midwestern roots and down-to-earth persona made him a natural fit for both comedy and drama.
He even made a surprising cameo in pop culture history, playing the grumpy father in Michael Jackson’s 1991 music video for Black or White.
Despite the fame, Wendt often joked about the realities of his on-screen beer habit. “It not only tastes disgusting, I was afraid of keeling over from high blood pressure,” he once remarked. “Then I got the knack… That’s how I make my money. That’s acting.”
George Wendt is survived by his wife, actress Bernadette Birkett, and their three children. As fans and fellow actors pay tribute to the man behind Norm, his legacy as a comedic staple of American television will endure.
Sources By Agencies
