George Wendt's cause of death released

'Cheers' star George Wendt dies at age 76

George Wendt, best known for his role as Norm Peterson on the NBC sitcom "Cheers," has died. He was 76 years old.

LOS ANGELES - "Cheers" star George Wendt’s cause of death was revealed by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health on Thursday.

Wendt died as a result of cardiac arrest with congestive heart failure, coronary artery disease and hypertension as underlying causes.

FILE - Pictured: George Wendt as Norm Peterson (Photo by NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty Images via Getty Images)

Underlying health issues

Dig deeper:

Wendt also suffered from other conditions that may have contributed to his death including end-stage renal disease, kidney failure and hyperlipidemia, according to a death certificate obtained by TMZ.

When did George Wendt die? 

Wendt died early on the morning of May 20, 2025.

He was 76 years old.

Wendt passed peacefully in his sleep while at home, according to the publicity firm The Agency Group.

What they're saying:

"George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him," the family said in a statement. "He will be missed forever." The family has requested privacy during this time.

"Norm!"

The backstory:

Wendt was born in Chicago, Illinois, on Oct. 17, 1948, according to IMDB.

After dropping out of Notre Dame University, he worked with Chicago's Second City comedy troupe until 1980.

Wendt is best known for his role as Norm on the popular and beloved comedy series, "Cheers." He was a starring cast member on the show for all 275 episodes.

His role as the gentle, beer-loving Norm earned him six straight Emmy Award nominations for best supporting actor in a comedy series from 1984-1989.

Wendt also featured in films such as "Fletch" and "Forever Young."