George Robert Wendt Jr. (October 17, 1948 – May 20, 2025)

George Wendt, the affable, beer-loving barfly known to millions as “Norm!” on the iconic sitcom Cheers, has died at 76.

Wendt’s portrayal of Norm Peterson, the witty and world-weary accountant who made Cheers feel like home, resonated deeply with Gen X.

Though best known for Cheers, Wendt’s career extended to film, stage, and guest appearances that reminded audiences of his range and generosity as a performer. Whether popping up in Fletch, Saturday Night Live, or even the music video for Michael Jackson’s “Black or White,” Wendt’s self-deprecating humor and unmistakable charm made him a cherished part of Gen X’s cultural memory.

Wendt died in his sleep at his home in Los Angeles, on May 20, 2025, at the age of 76, from cardiac arrest.

He is survived by his wife, actress Bernadette Birkett, their children, and a legacy that will echo in TV lounges and trivia nights for generations to come.