Jason Sudeikis honored the memory of his late uncle, George Wendt, best known for playing Norm Peterson on Cheers, during his appearance at the annual Big Slick charity event in Kansas City. Wendt passed away peacefully in his sleep last month at age 76.
At a press conference during the event, Ted Lasso star Sudeikis reflected on his uncle’s life and legacy. “We miss him greatly, and I love him dearly,” he said. Sudeikis praised Wendt not only as a family member but also as a role model in the entertainment industry.
Remembering George Wendt’s Legacy
Wendt, who starred in all 11 seasons of the iconic NBC sitcom Cheers, left a profound impact on both audiences and fellow actors. “There’s that old saying, ‘Don’t meet your heroes,’ but he wasn’t one of those people. He was as fun, kind, and warm as the characters he portrayed,” said Sudeikis.
He highlighted how Wendt helped shape his own acting career. “He taught me that being an actor was a real career option, especially for someone from the Midwest,” he added.
Sudeikis also recalled Wendt’s love for Kansas City and Chicago, noting his frequent visits to local bar Mike’s, humorously suggesting he “logged maybe 18 credit hours” there in preparation for his role on Cheers.
When Sudeikis’ microphone malfunctioned during the conference, he joked, “That’s him messing with the sound board. He’s like, ‘Don’t talk about me.’ Just good Midwestern humility.”
Family Pride and Fond Memories
Wendt was the brother of Sudeikis’ mother, Kathryn. In a 2024 episode of the Still Here Hollywood podcast, Wendt expressed his pride in his nephew: “Not only is he successful, but he’s solid. So smart, so thoughtful. It all comes out in the show.”
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Sudeikis similarly expressed admiration for Wendt in a 2011 Playboy interview, saying his uncle served as a shining example of success in acting: “The advice he gave me, jokingly, was ‘Get on one of the best sitcoms of all time and then ride it out.’”
Tributes from Cheers Cast Members
Following Wendt’s death, former Cheers castmates shared heartfelt tributes. Ted Danson said, “I am devastated. It’s going to take me a long time to get used to this. I love you, Georgie.”
John Ratzenberger, who played Cliff Clavin, reflected on their friendship: “George brought Norm to life with subtle brilliance. That was his gift.”
Rhea Perlman, who portrayed Carla Tortelli, recalled their on-set dynamic: “George Wendt was the sweetest, kindest man I ever met. It was impossible not to like him… I’ll miss him more than words can say.”
