Ted Danson’s Somber Tribute to George Wendt: Cheers Legend Remembered
Look, I don’t *volunteer* for this grief-fest, but Ted Danson has at last broken his silence on the untimely death of his Cheers co-star, George Wendt. In an Instagram post on June 12, the actor—a.k.a. Sam Malone—offered a heartfelt memorial to “Norm,” the character Wendt immortalized on TV. If you’ve ever tuned into People Magazine or caught the latest Entertainment Tonight segment, you’ve seen your fill of Hollywood farewells, but Danson’s words cut through the usual fanfare with genuine warmth.
According to People, Danson wrote, “George was more than just my on-screen barfly; he was my brother.” He went on to share an anecdote about the two swapping “Dad jokes” between takes, a small glimpse at the bond that anchored Cheers for eleven seasons. Entertainment Tonight adds that Danson recalled one Christmas party in ’88 where Wendt roped the entire cast into a karaoke sing-along, turning Boston’s bitter chill into something “almost bearable.” It’s the sort of behind-the-scenes detail you only get when lifelong pals suddenly can’t riff off each other anymore.
Deadline confirms that Wendt, 74, passed away peacefully on June 10, surrounded by family. His wife, Bernadette Birkett, and their four children were reportedly by his side. Although the news first surfaced on TMZ, it was the official statement from Wendt’s publicist—shared via Variety—that got Danson’s attention and spurred his overdue response. In that same statement, the publicist noted Wendt’s charitable work with the American Heart Association, reminding everyone that “Norm Peterson” was more than just a neighborhood regular with a catchphrase.
Social media, naturally, has erupted. #NormForever trended on Twitter as fans posted screenshots of episodes, cast photos and, yes, even the iconic “Norm!” barbell door-bang. Some fans pointed out that surviving Cheers without Wendt now feels “like a pub missing its best patron.” I told you so: the internet will milk every last drop of nostalgia—and tragedy.
Danson wrapped up his tribute by pledging to donate to Wendt’s favorite charity, a nod to the off-camera generosity his friend was known for. Then he hit us with, “Miss you, old friend. Save me a spot at Cheers in the sky.” Cue the tissues—or don’t, if you’re as stodgy about sentiment as yours truly.
And that, dear reader, is why we can’t have nice things.
Sources: Celebrity Storm and People Magazine, Entertainment Tonight, Variety, TMZ
Attribution: Creative Commons Licensed
