George Wendt: The Iconic Norm Peterson of Cheers

The Rise to Fame

George Wendt is best known for his role as Norm Peterson on the hit television sitcom Cheers, which aired from 1982 to 1993. His portrayal of the lovable, beer-guzzling, and sarcastic regular at the Cheers bar earned him six consecutive nominations for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

Early Life and Education

Born on October 17, 1948, in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago, Illinois, George Robert Wendt Jr. is the son of Loretta Mary (née Howard) and George Robert Wendt, a Navy officer and realtor. He is one of nine children, with six sisters and two brothers. Wendt's maternal grandfather was photographer Tom Howard. He attended Campion High School in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin, and later studied at the University of Notre Dame, but was expelled after receiving a 0.00 GPA in his junior year. He then attended Rockhurst College in Kansas City, Missouri, where he graduated with a BA in economics.

Career Highlights

Wendt's career in show business began at The Second City, a renowned improvisational comedy troupe in Chicago, where he met his future wife, Bernadette Birkett. He spent years honing his craft, eventually landing his breakout role as Norm Peterson in Cheers. The show's success catapulted Wendt to stardom, and he became a household name.

Post-Cheers Career

After Cheers ended its 11-season run, Wendt starred in his own sitcom, The George Wendt Show, but it was cancelled after only a few episodes. He went on to appear in numerous films, including:

• Airplane II: The Sequel (1982)
• No Small Affair (1984)
• Fletch (1985)
• The Little Rascals (1994)
• Spice World (1997)
• Outside Providence (1999)
• Santa Buddies (2009)
• Sandy Wexler (2017)

Awards and Nominations

Wendt's impressive career has earned him numerous award nominations, including:

• Six Primetime Emmy Award nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series for his role in Cheers
• Two TV Land Award nominations for Favorite Character and Favorite Second Banana for his role in Cheers

Personal Life

Wendt is married to Bernadette Birkett, whom he met at The Second City. He is also an uncle to actor and former SNL writer and cast member Jason Sudeikis, his sister Kathryn's son. Wendt's net worth is estimated to be around $45 million, a testament to his successful career in film and television.

Legacy

George Wendt's portrayal of Norm Peterson has become an iconic character in American television history. His contributions to the world of comedy have inspired countless actors and comedians, cementing his place as one of the greatest comedic actors of all time.