Fans Mourn Passing of Bears 'Superfan' George Wendt From Saturday Night Live Skits
The Chicago Bears have not won a Super Bowl since their 46-10 drubbing of the New England Patriots back in 1986, a time when quarterback Jim McMahon led the team's offense and the Bears' unique 46 defense changed the way defense was played.
On Tuesday, the sports and entertainment worlds received news of the passing of former Chicago Bears 'Superfan' George Wendt, who played the iconic comedic role on the Saturday Night Live show, filmed live in New York City since October 1975.
Fans mourned the passing of Wendt, who led a gregarious band of Bears, Bulls and Blackhawks superfans on the show featuring SNL cast members Mike Myers, Chris Farley and others during the time it captured hearts and minds on the popular TV show.
"RIP, George Wendt," the X page CHGO Bears wrote along with a .GIF of Wendt's famous catch phrase, 'Da Bears!"
Born George Robert Wendt, Jr., his SNL character was known as Norm the Superfan, who spent plenty of time in Chicago area bars with his friends discussing Chicago sports in a hilarious and colorful way.
Wendt grew up in Beverly on the city's south side, the son of Loretta Mary and George Robert Wendt.
His Chicagoland upbringing gave him a clear window into the mannerisms of Chicago area fans, which he brought to his world famous SNL skits.
Wendt also starred on the world famous 'Cheers' TV show, 1999's 'Alice in Wonderland,' and the 1990-1997 series 'Wings.'
Fans and journalists posted their favorite clips from Wendt's SNL appearances of the man who was also known as actor Jason Sudeikis' uncle.
Wendt, born in 1948, was 76 at the time of his death.
"Drinks on the house Norm," one fan wrote.
"Da Bears! RIP Norm!" another added.
"Southsider from Christ the King parish. Good man. RIP George," another added.
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