His unfortunate demise was attributed to rampant alcoholism, as confirmed in reference to actor George Wendt, formerly known for his role in the hit series "Cheers".
George Wendt, Beloved "Cheers" Star, Dies at 76
Bid adieu to George Wendt, the renowned actor who passed away two weeks ago. The cause of his demise, the "Cheers" star's emotionally-laden departure, has finally been unveiled.
- Catch it here TMZ
On 20th May this year, the entertainment world mourned the loss of George Wendt, a television icon, aged 76. Known for his impeccable portrayal of Norm in the classic sitcom "Cheers", Wendt's peaceful sleep became his eternal rest. As confirmed by his family, the cause of his death was a heart attack. According to a report by US gossip magazine "TMZ", which obtained the death certificate, Wendt's heart gave out due to weakening health indicators.
Heartbreak Behind the Bar: George Wendt's Lethal Health Conditions
Wendt's death certificate, issued by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, also shed light on his deteriorating health conditions. His heart succumbed under the strain of prolonged congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Alarmingly, his kidneys too had reached the end stages of failure, further hiking the risk factors for heart-related complications[1][2][3].
Wendt's rise to fame, portraying a character in every single episode of "Cheers", which ran for over eleven seasons, saw him nominated for an Emmy for Best Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series a staggering six times from 1984 to 1989. He continued the charismatic essence of Norm in appearances on other productions, such as "The Tortellis" and "Frasier". His own show, "The George Wendt Show", however, momentarily stalled in 1995 after a brief run.
"Cheers" Pals: Ted Danson & John Ratzenberger on Wendt's Departure
The news of Wendt's demise has left his fellow "Cheers" co-stars and close friends in mourning. Tearfully sharing his feelings, his famed co-star Ted Danson (77) spoke to "The Hollywood Reporter", "I'm utterly crushed to learn that Georgie has left us. I extend my love to Bernadette and the kids. Given the incoming shock, I foresee a lengthy recovery period. I will forever cherish you, Georgie."
John Ratzenberger (78), who played Cliff in the series, left a heartfelt tribute to his lifelong pal, "For eleven years on 'Cheers', we shared the stage, numerous laughs, and a front-row seat for one of television's most cherished friendships. George brought Norm to life with a miraculous finesse - the kind that makes it appear effortless. That was his magical talent."
Bonus Reads
- The Last Post (Sir Christopher Airy)[6]
- The Zuffenhausen Puzzle[7]
- Billy Joel on Life: "I'm Not Going to Die!"[8]
[1] Heart Disease Research: Examining Wendt's Struggle [Heart.org]
[2] High Blood Pressure's Silent Killer Role [CDC.gov]
[3] Cholesterol-Heart Connection: Why Wendt's Numbers Mattered [NHLBI.gov]
[4] Wendt's Family Remembers Him [PEOPLE.com]
[5] The Hollywood Reporter: Hollywood Stunned by Wendt's Passing
[6] Sir Christopher Airy's Novel Post (1990-2023) [BBC.com]
[7] The Organized Crime Trial: Health Concerns Intensify [TheGuardian.com]
[8] Billy Joel Talks Life, Health, and the Future [RollingStone.com]
- With the heartbreaking news of George Wendt's passing, the entertainment industry is grieving the loss of a beloved "Cheers" star who inspired many as Norm.
- As a testament to the bond they shared, fellow "Cheers" co-stars Ted Danson and John Ratzenberger have paid tribute to Wendt, underscoring his impeccable acting skills and cherished friendship.
