How is the world remembering George Wendt after his death at 76? Tributes pour in for the late actor

Tributes have been pouring in for beloved actor and comedian George Wendt, who passed away on May 20, 2025. He was 76.

Per People, his publicist, Melissa Nathan, issued a statement confirming the news of his demise that said,

“Beloved actor and comedian, George Wendt, best known for starring in the NBC hit comedy Cheers, has passed away... George’s family confirmed the news of his death early Tuesday morning, announcing he died peacefully in his sleep while at home... 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.”

Wendt featured in all the episodes of the NBC sitcom, Cheers, from its premiere in 1982 to its finale in 1993. He is widely known for his iconic role, Norm Peterson in the show.

On his demise, many of Wendt’s friends, former co-stars and fans have been remembering him for his legacy on Cheers. They took to social media to pay their tributes to the late actor who was celebrated for his warmth, humor, and iconic presence.

Speaking to ABC News, his Cheers co-star John Ratzenberger said:

“For eleven years on 'Cheers,' we shared a stage, a lot of laughs, and a front-row seat to one of television's most beloved friendships. George brought Norm to life with a subtle brilliance — the kind that made it look easy. That was his gift.”

Here is how the world is remembering him after his demise.

---

Tributes pour in as George Wendt passes away

On the passing of George Wendt, tributes have been flooding in from his co-stars, friends, and fans. Here is how they have described his legacy in their heartfelt messages.

“Rest in power George Wendt. One of the greatest character actors of our generation. A compilation of Norm replies in his honor,” a user on X commented.

“In honor of the legendary George Wendt, here is every time Norm Peterson walks into Cheers,” another user on X added.

George Wendt’s co-star, Ted Danson, said in a statement, according to a report in Variety;

“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.”

Kelsey Grammar said, according to The Hollywood Reporter,

“I believe mourning is a private matter. But I liked George a lot. He was beloved by millions.”

Rhea Perlman told the outlet,

“George Wendt was the sweetest, kindest man I ever met. It was impossible not to like him. As Carla, I was often standing next to him, as Norm always took the same seat at the end of the bar, which made it easy to grab him and beat the cr*p out of him at least once a week."

Perlman added:

" I loved doing it and he loved pretending it didn’t hurt. What a guy! I’ll miss him more than words can say.”

“Watching him walk through that door and head to his barstool, America couldn’t wait to say hi to Norm every Thursday night. George Wendt was an essential part of the genius of ‘Cheers’ and he will be missed by the millions who loved him.” NBC Entertainment shared on X.

“Another great talent gone too soon. Thank you, Mr. Wendt for your comedic greatness. Rest in peace,” a fan said.

“This hits so hard. Georgie was more than a colleague — he was family to so many. Ted’s words remind us how deeply loved and irreplaceable he was,” a fan wrote on X.

In addition to Cheers, George Wendt appeared in TV shows such as M*A*S*H, Taxi and Soap. According to a report in The Mirror US, he was seen in films such as Dreamscape, House, Fletch, Gung Ho, Plain Clothes, Never Say Die, Guilty by Suspicion, Forever Young, and Spice World.