George Wendt, renowned for his portrayal of Norm Peterson on the iconic sitcom “Cheers”, passed away at the age of 76. His family confirmed that he died peacefully in his sleep, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved family man and friend . Wendt's career spanned various mediums, but it was his role as the affable barfly Norm that resonated most with audiences. Over the course of *Cheers*, which featured more than 260 episodes, Wendt's character became synonymous with humor and warmth, garnering him six Emmy nominations .
Norm Peterson on the hit NBC sitcom Cheers, has died at the age of 76. 
Wendt's family confirmed the news of his death, saying he died peacefully in his sleep at home early Tuesday morning.  "George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him.  He will be missed forever," read a statement to CBC News from a family representative, which noted that his loved ones have requested privacy. 
Though Norm was in every episode of Cheers, it is hard to identify a singular moment that made him a great sitcom character. Instead, the affection we felt was accumulative: for his world-weariness, his insistence on awful food, the loathing and love he felt for his unseen wife Vera – and of course, the simple pleasure he took in having a cold one with friends. (Which led to a bar tab so big by the final episode that Sam threatened to send it to Nasa to calculate.)
John Ratzenberger, who played Cliff Clavin on Cheers, tells PEOPLE that he's "heartbroken to hear about the passing of my friend George Wendt."
"For eleven years on Cheers, we shared a stage, a lot of laughs, and a front-row seat to one of television’s most beloved friendships," he says. "George brought Norm to life with a subtle brilliance — the kind that made it look easy. That was his gift."
"He was a true craftsman — humble, hilarious, and full of heart," he continues. "What you saw on screen was exactly who he was off screen with impeccable comedic timing and a deep loyalty to those he loved. I’ll miss our conversations and the quiet moments of friendship that meant the most."
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