George Wendt, best known for playing Norm Peterson on the long-running NBC sitcom ‘Cheers’, has died at the age of 76.
In a statement to PEOPLE, his publicist Melissa Nathan confirmed that the actor died on the morning of Tuesday, May 20: “Beloved actor and comedian, George Wendt, best known for starring in the NBC hit comedy Cheers, has passed away. George’s family confirmed the news of his death early Tuesday morning, announcing he died peacefully in his sleep while at home. George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”
Wendt, who starred in every episode of “Cheers” from when the show first aired in 1982 to its final episode in 1993, earned six Emmy nominations for his role on the NBC comedy series.
Born on Oct. 17, 1948, in Chicago, Wendt’s earlier work included roles on TV series including Hart to Hart, Soap, Taxi and M*A*S*H, as well as film roles including My Bodyguard, Jekyll and Hyde… Together Again, and Airplane II: The Sequel.
Wendt is survived by his wife, actress Bernadette Birkett (the unseen, offscreen voice of Norm’s wife, Vera, on Cheers) in addition to his children, Hilary, Joe and Daniel; and his stepchildren, Joshua and Andrew.
Editorial credit: Kathy Hutchins / Shutterstock.com