George Wendt, best known for his iconic role as Norm Peterson on the beloved sitcom Cheers, passed away on May 20, 2025, at the age of 76. At the time of his death, Wendt’s net worth was estimated at $10 million, a testament to his decades-long career in television, film, theater, and voice acting. His legacy as a staple of American comedy continues to be celebrated by generations of fans.
Early Life and Family Background
George Robert Wendt Jr. was born on October 17, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, into a large Irish-German family. Raised in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago, George grew up with eight siblings. His family’s history had some unique moments—his maternal grandfather, Tom Howard, was the famed tabloid photographer who captured the infamous 1928 image of Ruth Snyder’s execution.
George’s sister Kathryn Wendt married Daniel Joseph Sudeikis, making George the uncle of actor Jason Sudeikis, known for Ted Lasso. George’s bond with his family extended throughout his life, especially with his wife Bernadette Birkett, whom he married in 1978. The couple had three children together—Hilary, Joe, and Daniel—and George was a stepfather to Bernadette’s two sons from a previous relationship.
Education and Rocky Start
After high school in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, George enrolled at University of Notre Dame, but his first semester resulted in a 0.00 GPA, leading to his expulsion. Undeterred, he transferred to Rockhurst College in Missouri, where he graduated with a degree in economics—a major far removed from his eventual career path.
Early Career and Second City Beginnings
Wendt’s professional acting journey began in the 1970s with The Second City improv troupe in Chicago. Starting out by sweeping floors, he gradually made his way to the stage, honing the comedic timing and authenticity that would later define his career. It was here that he met Bernadette Birkett, who would later voice Norm’s unseen wife, Vera, on Cheers.
George landed his first TV and film roles in the early 1980s, with appearances on shows like MASH*, Soap, and Taxi, as well as a small part in the film My Bodyguard.
The Cheers Phenomenon
Wendt’s big break came in 1982 when he was cast as Norm Peterson on Cheers. Over the course of 11 seasons and 275 episodes, George became a sitcom legend. Norm, the lovable barfly with a one-liner always ready, resonated deeply with audiences. His entrance—always met with a rousing “Norm!” from patrons—became an indelible moment in TV history.
During his Cheers run, Wendt earned six consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Though he never won, his character became one of the most iconic in television. At the height of the show, George earned $200,000 per episode, totaling approximately $5 million per season—about $10 million per year adjusted for inflation.
Life and Work After Cheers
After Cheers ended in 1993, George continued acting across a wide variety of platforms. He made appearances on Saturday Night Live, Seinfeld, Frasier, Becker, Hot in Cleveland, and Modern Men. He also reprised the Norm character for animated shows like The Simpsons and Family Guy.
Wendt ventured into films such as Forever Young with Mel Gibson, Man of the House with Jonathan Taylor Thomas, Outside Providence, and Lakeboat. He also appeared in a Michael Jackson music video in 1991 and co-hosted reality and game shows throughout the 2000s.
George’s career wasn’t confined to the screen. He flourished on stage as well, starring in Broadway productions like Art, Hairspray, Elf: The Musical, and a notable performance as Willy Loman in Death of a Salesman in Ontario, Canada.
Commercial Work and Endorsements
Later in his career, George appeared in State Farm Insurance commercials, often playing off his “Norm” persona, adding a familiar and nostalgic presence to advertising campaigns.
Personal Life and Legacy
George and Bernadette were married for over four decades, an enduring partnership that was both personal and professional. In addition to appearing together on Cheers, the couple performed in several stage productions. Wendt’s strong family values were evident in his public and private life.
He co-authored a book in 2009 titled Drinking with George: A Barstool Professional’s Guide to Beer, offering fans a humorous yet thoughtful reflection on his love for pubs, pints, and people.
George Wendt remained deeply loyal to Chicago, frequently returning to his hometown and embracing its blue-collar roots. He was a lifelong fan of the Chicago Cubs and Bears, embodying the city’s working-class ethos in both his characters and public persona.
Real Estate and Financial Summary
In 1985, during the peak of his Cheers fame, George and Bernadette purchased a home in Studio City, California, for $335,000. They lived there for the next 40 years. At the time of his passing in 2025, the home was valued at around $4 million.
George Wendt’s net worth of $10 million at the time of his death came from a mixture of television salaries, movie roles, theater work, voice acting, and endorsements. His lasting influence on pop culture and comedy ensures that his contributions will be remembered for generations.
Final Thoughts
George Wendt leaves behind a legacy defined by humor, humility, and heart. From Second City stages to prime-time television, his role as Norm Peterson remains one of the most beloved in sitcom history. With a net worth of $10 million and a career that brought joy to millions, George Wendt’s name will forever be synonymous with comfort, laughter, and the golden age of TV comedy.Cheers Star Leaves Behind $10 Million Legacy at Age 76