Ted Danson and Rhea Perlman shared deep sorrow over the loss of their "Cheers" co-star George Wendt, who died earlier this week at 76. Wendt, renowned for his role as Norm Peterson, passed away peacefully in his sleep at home on Tuesday, his family representative told The Associated Press.
Videos by Wide Open Country
Danson, 77, issued a moving statement through his team. "Georgie's absence breaks my heart," he said. "Consequently, I send my love to Bernadette and their children. Adjusting to this loss will take time. I love you, Georgie." Danson and Wendt forged a strong bond over 11 seasons on "Cheers," the iconic NBC sitcom that aired from 1982 to 1993.
Similarly, Perlman, who portrayed feisty waitress Carla Tortelli, paid tribute to Wendt. "George was the kindest man I knew," she told The Associated Press. "Everyone loved him. As Carla, I stood by Norm's barstool and playfully roughed him up weekly. I enjoyed it, and he loved acting unhurt. What a guy! Words can't capture how much I'll miss him."
Wendt and Cherished Legacy
Wendt's family shared a statement honoring his devotion. "George loved his family deeply and won many friends," they said. "Moreover, his warmth touched everyone who knew him. We'll miss him forever. Please respect our privacy now."
Wendt leaves behind his wife of 46 years, Bernadette Birkett, their children Hilary, Joe, and Daniel, stepchildren Joshua and Andrew, and nephew, actor Jason Sudeikis.
During "Cheers," Wendt earned six straight Emmy nominations for his role as Norm. Meanwhile, Danson, as bartender Sam Malone, secured 11 nominations and two wins. The show's lasting fame shone at the 2024 Emmys, where Wendt, Danson, Perlman, Kelsey Grammer, and John Ratzenberger reunited at a replica of the Boston bar. Host Anthony Anderson praised "Cheers" as a top television classic.
"It feels great to stand here with you," Danson told the audience. Ratzenberger, 78, called it a "long-awaited reunion," while Grammer, 70, expressed pride in the show.
However, Woody Harrelson, who played Woody Boyd, missed the event due to a theater role, Emmys producer Jesse Collins explained.
Reflecting on Bonds, Tension
In April, Danson addressed a 30-year rift with Grammer on their podcast, "Where Everybody Knows Your Name," co-hosted with Harrelson. "I regret missing 30 years of friendship with Kelsey," Danson told Grammer. "Frankly, I feel responsible." This honesty highlighted the complex ties behind the show's camaraderie.
Although Wendt's cause of death remains private, his passing leaves a void for "Cheers" fans. Yet, his role as Norm ensures his legacy endures.
