"George Wendt, the Beer-Loving Norm on Cheers,' Dies at 76

Jason Sudeikis' uncle earned Emmy nominations six years running after getting started on Second City in his hometown of Chicago.

George Wendt, who bellied up to the bar to portray the beer-quaffing everyman Norm Peterson for all 11 seasons of the fabled NBC sitcom Cheers, has died. He was 76.

Wendt died peacefully in his sleep at home, his family confirmed early Tuesday morning.

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