Wendt started his comedy career at The Second City up north in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood in 1975. He would appear on the main stage there for five years. After taking on a f

Fans mourned the passing of Wendt, who led a gregarious band of Bears, Bulls and Blackhawks superfans on the show featuring SNL cast members Mike Myers, Chris Farley and others during the time it captured hearts and minds on the popular TV show.

Actor George Wendt ... and then the other show got canceled." Wendt's beloved "Cheers" character, Norm Peterson, became a fan favorite, as the frequent customer had a punchline for every pint.

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George Wendt adeptly played the role of a deluded Chicago sports fan who always believed in his teams, despite evidence to the contrary.

Due to the memorable nature of the episode fans were stunned to learn that Wendt’s death coincided with the anniversary. Best-selling author Don Winslow noted: “George Wendt died today.