Cheers Star George Wendt Dead: See Heartfelt Tributes

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George Wendt is being remembered with a multitude of tributes and messages following his passing on Tuesday. Throughout his career, Wendt acted in numerous films and television series, such as “Gung Ho”, “Spice World”, and “Sabrina the Teenage Witch”. However, it was his portrayal of Norm Peterson, the everyday bar patron, in the cast of the popular NBC sitcom “Cheers” that made him most well-known. Wendt passed away on May 20, 2025, at his Los Angeles residence, at the age of 76.

There’s been a heartwarming surge of memorial messages for George Wendt, especially coming from his Cheers co-actors. Social media platforms have been brimming with touching posts in honor of the deceased actor, primarily from individuals who had collaborated with Wendt before, as well as the bar that served as the inspiration for Cheers. Here are some examples of these tributes:

[List of select tribute posts]

NBC Entertainment said that Wendt “will be missed by the millions who loved him.“

A number of actors from the TV series “Cheers,” including Ted Danson, who played Sam Malone, issued tributes to the deceased actor through statements to NBC and various other media outlets. Danson’s touching tribute was shared by Variety.

As a film enthusiast, I’m deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Georgie. My heart goes out to his beloved wife Bernadette and their children during this difficult time. It will take me a while to accept this loss, but I hold onto the fond memories we shared. Rest in peace, Georgie.

In a heartfelt statement, Rhea Perlman, known for her role as waitress Carla Tortelli on the popular sitcom “Cheers”, expressed some deeply moving sentiments regarding her co-star, John Ratzenberger (Wendt).

Among all the individuals I’ve encountered, George Wendt stood out as one of the most amiable and benevolent. It was simply impossible not to be drawn to his charm. As I, Carla, frequently found myself standing near him due to Norm’s habitual seating at the bar’s end, I had the opportunity, on more than one occasion a week, to engage in a playful bout with him – something we both enjoyed immensely. His good-natured humor during these encounters was truly endearing. I will miss him dearly, and words fall short in expressing the extent of my sorrow for his departure.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I can’t help but admire John Ratzenberger’s recent appreciation for the exceptional talent of the actor who portrayed Norm Peterson on Cheers, namely John Laroquette. His artistry in bringing Norm to life was truly remarkable and added depth to one of my favorite TV shows.

As a devoted movie enthusiast, I can’t help but feel deeply saddened by the news of my dear friend George Wendt’s passing. For an incredible eleven years on ‘Cheers’, we walked side by side on the stage, filled countless moments with laughter, and bore witness to one of television’s most treasured camaraderies.

George breathed life into Norm with a quiet genius – a talent so effortless it seemed almost natural. That was his unique gift to us all.

He embodied the essence of a genuine artisan – modest, amusing, and brimming with kindness. The persona he portrayed on screen was a true reflection of his off-screen self, displaying exceptional comic talent and unwavering devotion towards those dear to him. I’ll dearly miss our chats and the precious instances of camaraderie that held immense value. My sympathies go out to his wife Bernadette, their kids, and everyone who cherished him.

Kelsey Grammer, the actor renowned for his portrayal of psychiatrist and frequent Cheers patron Frasier Crane, delivered a poignant yet succinct remark regarding Wendt.

“I believe mourning is a private matter. But I liked George a lot. He was beloved by millions.”

Comedian and actor Jeff Ross was among the first to honor Wendt on social media platforms. He posted a group selfie, which also featured Wendt, taken at a charity event. Ross expressed that even though Wendt wasn’t feeling well, he managed to step up and make countless people laugh for an excellent cause.

In one of his social media posts, Eric Allan Kramer, known for appearing on an episode of Cheers, shared a photo featuring Wendt portraying Norm Peterson. Kramer reminisced about Wendt’s kindness during filming, stating that the late actor was always thoughtful enough to ensure there was a beer in his hand at the end of each day on set.

In the later stages of his acting career, George Wendt frequently appeared as a guest star in the sitcom “Sabrina the Teenage Witch”. A photo shared by Sabrina Spellman actress Melissa Joan Hart, who was on set with him, shows them together. Her caption reads, “Heaven is now a bit more amusing with #GeorgeWendt.

Michael Keaton, an actor who was nominated for an Oscar and worked alongside Wendt in the 1986 film “Gung Ho”, also offered a tribute. Sharing Wendt’s obituary, he wrote: “Simply someone you enjoyed being around!

talented and funny and a good guy RIP George”

Reflecting on cherished moments, I, too, echo the sentiments of Cheers Boston, the esteemed establishment that inspired the beloved sitcom, “Cheers.” They recently shared a poignant image: an empty beer mug gracefully positioned in front of Norm’s familiar spot at the bar. Their heartfelt message read, “To George: gratitude for the laughter, memories, and enduring legacy you’ve left us. You’ll forever hold a seat at our establishment.

George Wendt Left A Lasting Legacy With Cheers

His Passing Inspires Even Greater Fondness For Norm Peterson

It’s clear that George Wendt left a significant and enduring impression on many, as both his co-stars from the popular show “Cheers” and actors who worked with him in lesser-known productions took time to honor him. This beloved star touched the lives of millions through the laughter he brought to life during the 275 episodes of “Cheers,” where he was a consistent presence.

The fondness for the sitcom had reached its peak due to its 30-year anniversary in 2023, and Wendt’s demise is likely to trigger a surge of rewatches of Cheers, with numerous heartfelt echoes of “NORM!“.

The Late Cheers Star Won’t Soon Be Forgotten

More Tributes From George Wendt’s Co-Stars & Fellow Actors Are Expected

Despite an abundance of heartfelt tributes and remarks from those fortunate enough to collaborate with George Wendt, many more are anticipated to pour in. With an impressive 275 episodes under his belt, as Eric Allan Kramer noted, Wendt made a lasting, warm impact on everyone he worked with, whether it was for a single storyline. Wendt’s legacy will be kept alive through social media posts and memories shared, offering a heartwarming means to commemorate the late Cheers actor and his nearly half-century career.

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2025-05-21 23:16