George Wendt's secret health battles before death including heart issues & life-threatening obesity
George Wendt has tragically died aged 76, with his cause of death currently unknown. However, the actor was known to have health issues over the years.
TV star Cheers alum George Wendt dies at 76 years old.
Wendt's family confirmed the news of the beloved Hollywood star's passing on Tuesday, May 20. He died peacefully in his sleep at his family home, and his official cause of death has not yet been released at this time.
The actor was very private about his health. He was last seen in January, getting out of his car with his wife Bernadette Birkett, using a cane for assistance, and also holding onto a part of the car. Wendt suffered a health scare back in 2012 and was hospitalized with chest pains.
Newsbreak once reported that following the 2012 surgery, Wendt faced mobility challenges attributed to weight gain. The actor had "difficulty walking for a while because of his weight."
Wendt was set to perform in a local production in Chicago when it was later reported that he had undergone coronary bypass surgery after doctors found a constricted artery.
In November, the actor was spotted getting wheeled into the clinic by a caretaker. The Daily Mail reported that the actor spent three hours getting treatment before being seen in a wheelchair, hugging a pillow. He was then picked up by his wife of 45 years, who helped him into the car.
A representative for the actor shared a statement confirming his death. It read: "George was a doting family man, a well-loved friend and confidant to all of those lucky enough to have known him. He will be missed forever. The family has requested privacy during this time."
Fans expressed their sadness after hearing the news of the actor's passing. One person on X, formerly known as Twitter, wrote: "George Wendt passed today, absolute legend. Prayers up to him and his family, Norm was the best for a long long time. Made everyone laugh. #RIP." Another person posted: "Everyone who remembers him is saying “NORM!” in their minds. Iconic role in an iconic era. So sad! [prayer hands emoji]."
During his many years in the spotlight, Wendt starred in at least 28 films including his roles in Dreamscape (1984), House (1985), Fletch (1985), Gung Ho (1986), Plains Clothes (1987), Never Say Die (1988), Guilty by Suspicion (1991), Forever Young (1992) and Spice World (1997).
He was best known for playing Norm Peterson in the hit 1980s sitcom "Cheers". He had been nominated for six Golden Globes for his role as Norm on the show and in 2019, he won Best Actor at the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival for VFW.
Wendt and his wife had three children: two sons, including actor Daniel Wendt, and a daughter.
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