George Wendt’s Cause of Death Revealed
The cause of death for George Wendt, the beloved “Cheers” actor, has been disclosed two weeks following his unexpected demise at the age of 76. Wendt passed away peacefully in his sleep on May 20, after portraying the iconic Norm Peterson on the popular NBC series from 1982 until 1993, earning six consecutive Emmy nominations for his role.
Details from the Death Certificate
According to a death certificate from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, Wendt died from cardiac arrest. The certificate, obtained by TMZ, lists congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, and hypertension as underlying causes, while end-stage renal disease, kidney failure, and hyperlipidemia are also noted as significant contributing factors.
Family Statement and Reactions
Wendt’s family expressed their grief in a statement, describing him as a devoted family man and a cherished friend. They requested privacy during this difficult time. His passing was particularly shocking, occurring just six months after he was seen in a California dialysis clinic and coinciding with the 32nd anniversary of the “Cheers” finale.
Tributes from Co-stars
In the wake of his death, Ted Danson, who played bartender Sam Malone on “Cheers,” paid a heartfelt tribute to Wendt, expressing devastation over the loss and sending love to Wendt’s family.
Wendt’s Legacy on “Cheers”
The iconic sitcom “Cheers” ran for 11 seasons, overcoming a challenging initial run to become one of the most-watched shows in its later years. It achieved 28 Emmy Awards from 117 nominations. Wendt was a consistent presence throughout the series, embodying the loveable barfly character who resonated with audiences.
Wendt’s Life and Career
Prior to his acting career, Wendt faced academic struggles at the University of Notre Dame before stepping into showbiz, starting as a theatre janitor. He later secured roles in notable series like “Taxi” and “M*A*S*H” before his breakout role on “Cheers.” Despite some setbacks post-“Cheers,” he made memorable appearances in various TV shows and films over his career.
Family Connections and Final Years
Wendt, who had been married to Bernadette Birkett since 1978, is the proud uncle of actor Jason Sudeikis. In recent years, he kept a low profile, participating in a few appearances, including a reunion with his “Cheers” co-stars at the Emmy Awards in January 2024, marking a nostalgic return to the beloved series.
