Jason Sudeikis’ Heartwarming Tribute to George Wendt Before His Passing
Imagine Norm from Cheers handing out life lessons at a family barbecue—that’s exactly the scene Jason Sudeikis can’t stop raving about. In an emotional chat with People Magazine, Sudeikis recalled the single memory he treasures most with his late uncle, legendary Cheers star George Wendt, just weeks before Wendt’s unexpected passing (according to a New York Post obituary dated January 2023).
It all went down at a sun-soaked backyard gathering, where Wendt—usually playing the sarcastic regular at Boston’s most famous bar—swapped his barstool for a picnic chair. Sudeikis describes his uncle teaching him the “fine art of grilling” and, more importantly, how to navigate Hollywood with a healthy dose of humility. “He said, ‘Kid, never let success turn you into an a–hole,’ ” the actor recalled, dryly noting that he still burns half his burgers.
Sources close to the family confirm that Wendt’s off-camera warmth was just as legendary as Norm’s on-screen deadpan (New York Post; People Magazine). Behind the laughs and one-liners, Wendt apparently spent that afternoon sharing tales of set life, advising Sudeikis on script choices and reminding him to call his mom more often—advice the Ted Lasso star admitted he promptly ignored.
What makes this memory stand out isn’t just George’s sharp wit but the soft side he rarely showed in public. “He was an Irish uncle meets Yoda,” Sudeikis quipped. And while most kids remember birthday presents, Sudeikis got a pep talk that still echoes in every audition.
Exclusive scoop? Wendt even challenged Jason to a game of cornhole—an event one insider tells Celebrity Storm ended with props flying and Wendt declaring, “Never underestimate your nephew’s rogue toss.” It wasn’t just a game; it was mentorship disguised as backyard chaos.
As fans continue to pour tributes onto social media, Sudeikis’s recollection reminds us that “Cheers” wasn’t just a TV show—it was family. Stay tuned for Celebrity Storm’s next exclusive, where we dig into never-before-heard Cheers set stories and ask: did Norm really ad-lib that final punchline?
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, New York Post
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
