Latest news with #DaBears'
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Melissa Joan Hart and More Stars React to George Wendt's Death at 76: 'One of the Best'
Tributes are pouring in for the late George Wendt following the news of his death. The Cheers star died "peacefully in his sleep while at home" on Tuesday, May 20, his family confirmed to PEOPLE in a statement via his publicist. "George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him," the statement read. "He will be missed forever." Jeff Ross was among the first to pay tribute to Wendt — who was best known for playing Norm Peterson on Cheers, and appeared in every episode from its 1982 premiere to its finale in 1993 — following the news of his death. "I was lucky enough to spend some quality time talking with George Wendt a year ago at @bigslickkc annual event benefiting Children's Mercy Hospital in Kansas City. He wasn't feeling his best, but he still rose to the occasion and made thousands of people laugh a lot for a great cause," Ross, 59, wrote on Instagram as he shared a selfie of him and Wendt from last year's event. Ross recalled Wendt performing a "hilarious 'Da Bears' sketch" at the event with his nephew Jason Sudeikis and Kansas City Chiefs players Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes. The comedian concluded his post with a reference to the classic line from Cheers. "Cheers George — and wherever you are I know everybody knows your name." Melissa Joan Hart reflected on her time working with Wendt during his handful of appearances on Sabrina the Teenage Witch in 2001 and 2002 in an Instagram post, as she wrote that "heaven just got a little funnier" with his arrival. Hart said she was a "big #Cheers fan and knew I was among one of the best when he was on set" as she called it a "thrill to work beside him." "He was warm, professional and kind and our cast and crew were gifted with his presence every time. Rest in peace! #GodBlesstheFunnyPeople." Never miss a story — sign up for to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. Eric Allan Kramer, who guest-starred in a 1989 episode of Cheers, remembered Wendt as "one of the warmest, funniest guys I've ever come across" in an Instagram post. "Welcoming as the star he was, incredibly giving as an actor in rehearsal (and when the cameras were rolling)… Also the first one to make sure I had a beer in my hand at the end of the night… We shared a history of work with the Calgary Stampeders and exchanged many stories over the week… Cheers, indeed… Many thanks for the laughs and the education… RIP," the Good Luck, Charlie star wrote. Read the original article on People
Express Tribune
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
George Wendt, beloved Cheers star known as Norm Peterson, dies at 77
George Wendt, the Emmy-nominated actor best known for playing Norm Peterson on the classic sitcom Cheers, has died at age 77. His family confirmed that Wendt passed away peacefully in his sleep at home. Wendt played Norm for all 11 seasons of NBC's Cheers from 1982 to 1993, becoming a fan favorite for his portrayal of the lovable bar regular. He received six consecutive Emmy nominations from 1984 to 1989 for his performance, and his opening line — often a simple 'beer' — became iconic. Born in Chicago on October 17, 1948, Wendt began his career with Second City, a renowned improv group. He also made memorable appearances on Saturday Night Live, notably in the 'Da Bears' sketch. Wendt's film roles included Fletch, House, Gung Ho, and Spice World. He also starred in Michael Jackson's 'Black or White' music video. Wendt was the uncle of actor Jason Sudeikis and married actress Bernadette Birkett, who voiced Norm's wife Vera on Cheers. He also authored the 2009 book Drinking With George, reflecting his connection to beer culture both on and off-screen. Beyond Cheers, he had roles on Frasier, The Simpsons, Family Guy, and even played Edna Turnblad in Broadway's Hairspray. He was widely respected for his grounded comedic style and everyman charm. Wendt is survived by his wife, children, stepchildren, and extended family. As Norm would say, 'It's a dog-eat-dog world, and I'm wearing Milk-Bone underwear.' He will be deeply missed.
