‘Cheers’ star George Wendt dead at 76

CHICAGO, Ill. (KION) - Actor George Wendt, famous for his iconic role as barfly Norm on "Cheers," has died at age 77.

According to TMZ, the Chicago-native died peacefully in his sleep at home with his family. Wendt's family recalls the six-time Emmy-nominated actor as "a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all those lucky enough to have known him."

Wendt got his start in comedy by being a part of the comedy staple The Second City before transitioning into television roles from "Taxi" before being cast in "Cheers." Wendt played Norm Peterson, who would show up at the bar, be greeted with a shout of his name, and vent about his life problems.

Wendt starred in all 11 seasons, appearing in all 275 episodes of the show. Wendt also appeared in film roles such as the cult classic 1985 film "House."

The cause of Wendt's death is still unknown.