CHEERS Cast Pays Loving Tribute to George Wendt - “It Was Impossible Not to Like Him”
By now, fans are still reeling from the news that George Wendt, the man who made Norm Peterson a household name, has passed away at 76. For fans of Cheers, it’s a punch to the gut, and for those who knew him best, it’s a deeply personal loss.
The tributes from his Cheers castmates paint a portrait of a man who was just as warm, funny, and beloved off-screen as he was on.
Ted Danson, who played bartender Sam Malone throughout the series, said:
“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.”
John Ratzenberger, who sat beside Wendt at the bar as the ever-opinionated mailman Cliff Clavin, remembered the real bond they shared:
“For 11 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.
“He was a true craftsman — humble, hilarious and full of heart. What you saw on screen was exactly who he was off screen with impeccable comedic timing and a deep loyalty to those he loved.
“I’ll miss our conversations and the quiet moments of friendship that meant the most. My thoughts are with his wife Bernadette, their children, and everyone who loved him.”
Rhea Perlman, who played Carla Tortelli, recalled her frequent scenes next to Norm’s favorite barstool:
“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 crap out of him at least once a week.
“I loved doing it and he loved pretending it didn’t hurt. What a guy! I’ll miss him more than words can say.”
NBC, the network that aired Cheers for over a decade, also shared a heartfelt message:
“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. Norm was all of us. A regular guy who finished his hardworking day wanting to be surrounded by friends and a frosty beverage. We’re proud to raise a glass and toast a true comedy legend.”
Even outside the Cheers family, Wendt left a lasting impression. Actress Melissa Joan Hart, who worked with him on Sabrina the Teenage Witch, shared on Instagram:
“Heaven just got a little funnier with George Wendt. It was a thrill to work beside him on Sabrina the Teenage Witch for a handful of episodes.
“I was a big Cheers fan and knew I was among one of the best when he was on set. He was warm, professional and kind and our cast and crew were gifted with his presence every time. Rest in peace!”
George Wendt appeared in all 273 episodes of Cheers, earning six straight Emmy nominations along the way. But more than that, he was the beating heart of a show that made people feel seen and welcome.
In a world full of complicated characters, Norm was just a simple guy who wanted a cold beer, a little conversation, and a seat at a bar where everybody knew his name.
Source: Variety