Stellan Skarsgård leaned into self-deprecating humor while accepting the Golden Globe for Best Supporting Male Actor in a Motion Picture for Sentimental Value at the 2026 ceremony.
Actor George Wendt’s publicist is sharing sad news.
On Tuesday, May 20, Melissa Nathan announced the death of Wendt in a statement shared with People.
“Beloved actor and comedian, George Wendt, best known for starring in the NBC hit comedy Cheers, has passed away,” the statement began.
“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.”
Nathan concluded the public statement, saying, “The family has requested privacy during this time.”
In addition to being known for playing the witty Norm Peterson on “Cheers” from 1982 to 1993, Wendt’s career began in his native Chicago, where he was a comedian at The Second City in the 1970’s before becoming an actor, Variety reports.
During his time as Norm Peterson, Wendt received six Emmy nominations for supporting actor. He later became a “Saturday Night Live” regular in the 1990s.
In 2024, Wendt reprised his most famous role during the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards alongside Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, Kelsey Grammar, and John Ratzenberger.
According to Variety, in 1978, prior to his success on “Cheers” Wendt met his wife Bernadette Birkett, who lent her voice to Norm Peterson’s wife.
In addition to being survived by Birkett, Wendt is also survived by their three children, Joe, Daniel, and Hilary. Wendt is also an uncle to fellow beloved comedic actor Jason Sudeikis.
