George Wendt dies at 76: Social media remembers the 'Cheers' star

George Wendt , the beloved actor who brought Norm Peterson to life on Cheers, has passed away at 76. He died peacefully in his sleep on May 20, 2025, coincidentally marking the 32nd anniversary of the show's finale.


For over a decade, Wendt's portrayal of Norm, the affable, beer-loving regular at the Boston bar, earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations and a permanent place in television history. His entrance always prompted a hearty "Norm!" from the bar's patrons, a testament to his character's endearing presence.


Born in Chicago in 1948, Wendt's journey into comedy began at The Second City, where he met his future wife, Bernadette Birkett. Beyond Cheers, his career spanned appearances on Saturday Night Live, The Simpsons, and films like Fletch and Forever Young.

His Cheers co-stars remembered him fondly. Ted Danson expressed deep sorrow, calling Wendt a cherished friend. John Ratzenberger described him as a "true craftsman" and close confidant. Rhea Perlman praised Wendt's kindness, recalling their frequent onscreen interactions. "Cheers," which aired from 1982 to 1993, also starred Ted Danson, Rhea Pearlman, Woody Harrelson, Kirstie Alley, Shelley Long and Kelsey Grammer.

Netizens remember their favorite TV star and have poured tribute on social media.

"In honor of the legendary George Wendt, here is every time Norm Peterson walks into Cheers"

In honor of the legendary George Wendt, here is every time Norm Peterson walks into Cheers pic.twitter.com/5qkPUNgFRU

— Kevin Dalton (@TheKevinDalton) May 20, 2025

"RIP George Wendt aka Norm. Argueably his greatest ever greeting from the bar #RIPGeorgeWendt"

RIP George Wendt aka Norm.

Argueably his greatest ever greeting from the bar #RIPGeorgeWendt pic.twitter.com/xt2QF2UWj8

— Ollie Johnston (@_OllieJ) May 20, 2025

"RIP George Wendt"

RIP George Wendt 🍻 pic.twitter.com/G7viF24lLa

— Fantasy Baseball (@BaseballAdvice) May 20, 2025

"Awww...Rest in Peace George Wendt. I got to see him in Re-Animator The Musical (the front rows had trash bags/makeshift ponchos because of blood splatter) and he was clearly having a blast. I may have to break out that Cheers box set I have later tonight, he anchored that show."

Awww...Rest in Peace George Wendt. I got to see him in Re-Animator The Musical (the front rows had trash bags/makeshift ponchos because of blood splatter) and he was clearly having a blast. I may have to break out that Cheers box set I have later tonight, he anchored that show. pic.twitter.com/DAXizvTQLs

— Frank Wells (@FrankTracy) May 21, 2025

"Just found out George Wendt passed. Really heartbroken. Never met the guy, he always lifted my spirit when I was down. Rest in peace Norm."

Just found out George Wendt passed. Really heartbroken. Never met the guy, he always lifted my spirit when I was down. Rest in peace Norm.

— Joe Gravitt (@Darkmadder00) May 21, 2025

Wendt is survived by his wife of 47 years, Bernadette Birkett, and their three children. He was also the uncle of actor Jason Sudeikis.