George Robert Wendt Jr., the Chicago native best known for his role as Norm Peterson on the hit TV show Cheers, died in his sleep at his home on May 20, 2025. He was 76.
Born and raised in the Beverly neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side, Wendt was one of nine children. He married actress Bernadette Birkett, and together they raised three children. Wendt was also the uncle of actor and comedian Jason Sudeikis, his sister Kathryn’s son.
Wendt began his career in Chicago’s theater scene, including a stint with the famed Second City comedy troupe. His big break came in 1982 when he was cast as Norm, the affable bar regular on Cheers. He earned six Emmy nominations for his performance and appeared in every episode of the series through its May 20, 1993 finale.
Wendt died exactly 32 years after the final episode.
Beyond Cheers, Wendt was known to Chicago audiences for his recurring role as one of the “Superfans” on Saturday Night Live, a group of die-hard Chicago sports fans famous for their thick accents and love of the Chicago Bears.
He also acted in films such as Airplane II, Fletch, and The Little Rascals, and appeared in stage productions including Hairspray. Throughout his career, Wendt stayed connected to Chicago’s arts community and often returned to local theaters.
Wendt’s passing is mourned by fans and neighbors who remember him as a talented actor and proud Chicagoan.
Funeral arrangements have not been announced.