George Went, Beloved Actor from Cheers, Dies at 76

George Went, who is best known for his iconic role as Norm in the long-running sitcom Cheers, has passed away at the age of 76.

A spokesperson confirmed his death through a statement. “George was a devoted family man and a cherished friend to many,” his family shared. “He will be missed greatly. We ask for privacy during this difficult time.”

He died peacefully in his sleep at home.

Went was a fixture on Cheers from 1982 until 1993, appearing in all 275 episodes of the beloved show. During his time there, he earned six Emmy nominations for his performance.

In his own words about the show’s legacy, Went once remarked, “The standards seen in Cheers have been established for years.” He humorously added, “Aside from my preference for beer, there are some common traits. But, honestly, I think I’m much happier than Norm.” He also noted that he enjoyed beer long before the show, saying, “People smile when they see a few six-packs in my grocery cart.”

Beyond Cheers, Went reprised the Norm character in several other series, including Frasier, Wings, The Simpsons, Family Guy, and The Tortellis.

On Tuesday, his Cheers co-stars offered heartfelt tributes. Ted Danson, who played Sam Malone, expressed his devastation, saying, “We are heartbroken that Georgie is no longer with us. My love goes out to Bernadette and my kids. Adjusting to this will take time. I love you, Georgie.”

Rhea Perlman, known for her role as Carla Tortelli, remembered him as “the sweetest and kindest man I ever met.” She added, “It was impossible not to like him. Norm had his seat at the end of the bar, and I often found a way to engage with him.”

John Ratzenberger, who played Cliff Clavin, mentioned feeling profound grief. “For 11 years on Cheers, we shared one of TV’s most beloved friendships. George brought a subtle warmth to life.”

Kelsey Grammer, who worked alongside Went on Cheers and Frasier, commented, “Mourning is personal, but I genuinely liked George. Millions of people loved him.”

After Cheers, Went starred in a short-lived sitcom named The George Wendt Show in 1995, which aired for only six episodes. His other television appearances included Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Columbo, Portlandia, and The Goldbergs.

In film, he had notable roles in projects alongside actors like Robert De Niro in Guilty, Chevy Chase in Fletch, and Mel Gibson in Forever Young. He also played Macaulay Culkin’s father in Michael Jackson’s Black or White video.

On stage, Went featured in Broadway’s Hairspray, portraying Edna Turnblad, a role he considered one of his favorites. “It was an absolute joy,” he said, “so different from my other experiences.”

Most recently, he appeared in the 2022 festive comedy Christmas and Campbells, and even reunited with his Cheers castmates at the 2024 Emmy Awards.