‘Cheers’ star George Wendt dies at 76

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

Wendt died Tuesday

What we know:

Wendt died "peacefully" in his sleep at home on Tuesday

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.

Actor George Wendt attends Sirius XM Annual Celebrity Fantasy Football Draft at Hard Rock Cafe New York on July 19, 2012 in New York City. (Credit: Cindy Ord/Getty Images for Sirius XM Radio)

What we don't know:

Wendt's cause of death was not immediately revealed.

"Norm!"

George Wendt as Norm Peterson in the "Cheers" episode 'The Improbable Dream: Part 2,' which originally aired on September 28, 1989. Image is a screen grab. (Photo by CBS via Getty Images)

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."