Norm’s last call: Cheers to George Wendt, a Chicago legend

"I'm just trying to get a little more out of life than I put in," declared Norm, played by the immeasurable Chicago treasure George Wendt. He did just that, turning his role as Norm Peterson into one of TV’s most iconic characters. Wendt charmed audiences with his wit and relatability over a five-decade career.

According to a CBS News interview with Wendt’s family, George passed away in his sleep on Tuesday morning at his home. Though private about his health, Wendt had a history of cardiovascular issues. In 2012, he underwent coronary bypass surgery following chest pains. More recently, in November 2024, he was spotted leaving a dialysis clinic in Los Angeles.

Wendt was the youngest of nine siblings born on October 17, 1948, in Chicago's Beverly neighborhood. He attended Christ the King Elementary School and later Campion Jesuit High School in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. Wendt admitted he was a "bad student," struggling with subjects like math and science, but he found his passion in drama, joining the theater program at Campion.

After high school, Wendt enrolled at the University of Notre Dame to study architecture but was expelled after his first semester. He then transferred to Rockhurst University in Kansas City, where he earned a B.A. in economics in 1971. However, his passion for theater led him to shift his focus to acting.

He joined the Chicago theater scene, performing with The Second City. There, he refined his comedic timing, improvisation skills, and ability to connect with the audience.

While at Second City, George met actress Bernadette Birkett and married in 1978. Birkett had two sons from a previous relationship, whom George helped raise, and together they had three children, forming a blended family. Wendt kept his family life private, often citing their support as key to his success.

George was the uncle and godfather of actor Jason Sudeikis, son of his sister Kathy. He took great pride in Sudeikis' success and admired his thoughtful character. Sudeikis has cited Wendt as a key inspiration, seeing his uncle's journey as proof that a career in acting was possible.

In 1978, Wendt made his screen debut as an extra in A Wedding, as ‘a caterer’. He went on to make guest appearances on several sitcoms. In 1980, his career soared with the role of Norm Peterson on Cheers. As the lovable, often tipsy regular at Cheers, Wendt’s portrayal became iconic, thanks to his sarcastic one-liners and affable demeanor, which made him a fan favorite throughout the show’s eleven-season run.

 Wendt’s role on Cheers earned him six Emmy nominations, solidifying his place in TV history. Although he never won, his portrayal of Norm in all 275 episodes remains iconic.

After hosting Saturday Night Live, Wendt's "Da Bears" sketches became a 1990s staple and one of SNL’s most popular recurring skits. With their Chicago accents and love for the Bears, cast members like Chris Farley, David Spade, and Mike Myers helped drive the sketches' success.

In addition to his acting career, Wendt wrote "Drinking With George: A Barstool Professional’s Guide to Beer." Released in 2006, the book offers a down-to-earth guide to appreciating beer.

Wendt remained closely connected to Chicago throughout his career, often performing on local stages and supporting the arts. His humor and character portrayals reflected his affection for the city, frequently drawing on his hometown experiences.

His career is a testament to hard work, humor, and staying true to oneself. Following his death, his family released a statement, saying, “George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all who knew him. He will be missed forever.”