George Wendt's health struggles explored as Cheers star and Da Bears Superfan passes away

George Wendt passed away in his sleep at his Los Angeles home on Tuesday, May 20, 2025. The news of the Cheers star’s death was confirmed in a statement by his publicist, Melissa Nathan, who said (via Variety),

“George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time.”

As of this writing, the reason behind Wendt’s death hasn’t been revealed. The veteran actor was private about his health struggles, but he was reportedly seen in a wheelchair last year. According to Daily Mail, George Wendt was seen being wheeled out of an LA-based dialysis clinic in November 2024.

In January, The Mirror US reported that the actor was using a cane to walk. Wendt was accompanied by his wife, Bernadette Birkett, when he was photographed getting out of his car using a cane for assistance. George’s exact health status during his final days remains unclear at the time of this writing.

According to The Mirror US, the Sabrina the Teenage Witch actor was reportedly hospitalized following chest pains in 2012. Later, it was reported that George Wendt underwent “coronary bypass surgery” following the discovery of a “constricted artery.” While the procedure was successful, the actor temporarily faced difficulty walking due to his weight, per NewBreak.

George Wendt’s struggles with weight gain sparked concern among his friends, Radar Online reports

While the reason behind the passing of The Twilight Zone actor remains unclear, a report from Radar Online highlighted his struggles with weight gain. According to the entertainment and gossip website, Wendt’s years-long struggles with controlling his weight raised concerns among his friends. When the Cheers star made an appearance at the 2024 Emmys, an insider told Radar Online,

“George has been having difficulty walking for a while because of his weight, but now he’s practically hobbled.”

Wendt portrayed Norm Peterson, known for his large frame, on Cheers. A Da Bears Superfan commented on his weight contributing to his fame, per an interview with the Tampa Bay Times in 1985. He told the newspaper (via Catchy Comedy),

“One nice thing about being fat for a living is that you don't worry about losing weight or dieting. I don't know how much I'd have to lose before it was noticeable. Anyhow, if I lost 100 pounds people would say 'Oh, no, not another fat comedian wanting to be a leading man!’”

During the conversation, George Wendt also reflected upon being an avid beer drinker like Norm,

“I was a beer drinker long before Cheers. When I put a couple of six packs on top of my grocery shopping cart, people are pleased. I tell 'em I'm taking them home to rehearse.”

After Wendt’s passing, many admirers paid tribute to the actor, including his castmate from Cheers, Ted Danson. The Good Place actor wrote in a statement (via Today.com),

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“I am devastated to hear that Georgie is no longer with us. I am sending all my love to Bernadette and the children. It is going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie.”

George Wendt, 76, has been survived by his wife, Bernadette Birkett, and three children. For those unaware, he was also the maternal uncle of Ted Lasso star Jason Sudeikis.

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