‘Cheers’ Star George Wendt Dead at 76

George Wendt, famous for his starring role in the long-running NBC sitcom “Cheers,” has passed away at the age of 76.

Family sources have confirmed that he died peacefully in his sleep at his home early Tuesday morning.

The official cause of death has not been disclosed.

George’s family has described him as “a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him,” and they say he will be deeply missed.

Wendt portrayed Norm Peterson in all 275 episodes of “Cheers” and received six consecutive Primetime Emmy Award nominations for outstanding supporting actor in a comedy series.

After “Cheers” concluded in 1993, George starred in his own sitcom, “The George Wendt Show.”

In addition to his television work, George appeared in several films, including “Airplane II: The Sequel,” “No Small Affair,” “Fletch,” “The Little Rascals,” “Spice World,” “Outside Providence,” “Alice in Wonderland,” “Santa Buddies,” and “Sandy Wexler.”

George Wendt was born in Chicago, one of nine children. He attended high school in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin before studying at the University of Notre Dame. After college, he delved into sketch comedy improv and landed roles on TV shows like “Taxi,” “Soap,” and “M*A*S*H” before achieving fame on “Cheers.”

George Wendt was 76 years old at the time of his passing.