Actor George Wendt, best known for his role as Norm on 'Cheers,' dies at 76.

American actor George Wendt, best known for his role as Norm Peterson on the television series "Cheers" (1982-1993), died at the age of 76, his representative, Melissa Nathan, announced Tuesday.

"George was a dedicated family man, a dear friend, and a confidant to those fortunate enough to know him. He will be forever missed. The family has requested privacy at this time," the publicist said.

The statement did not specify the cause of death and explained that Wendt "passed away peacefully in his sleep at home" early Tuesday morning.

Wendt (Chicago, 1948) participated in the 275 episodes of the television sitcom set in a Boston bar, where he played the beer-loving Norm, a character that earned him six consecutive Emmy Award nominations.

He appeared in plays such as 'Hairspray' and 'Elf', the latter in which he played the role of Santa Claus.

The actor began his career as a stand-up comedian at Chicago's historic Second City in the 1970s before moving into television with minor roles and eventually making a name for himself starring in "Cheers."

After that series ended, his sense of humor allowed him to become one of the star comedians of the historic program 'Saturday Night Live' , although he also had a show to his name that lasted only one season.

He also appeared in series such as 'Seinfeld' and 'The Simpsons'; in films such as 'Fletch' and 'Grand-Daddy Day Care'; and in plays such as 'Hairspray' and 'Elf', the latter in the role of Santa Claus , a character he reprised in other productions.

On a personal level, Wendt married Bernadette Birkett, whom he met during his time as a comedian in Chicago , and with whom he had three children. The actor had eight siblings, and one of his nephews is fellow actor Jason Sudeikis ('Ted Lasso').

American actor George Wendt, best known for his role as Norm Peterson on the television series "Cheers" (1982-1993), died at the age of 76, his representative, Melissa Nathan, announced Tuesday.

"George was a dedicated family man, a dear friend, and a confidant to those fortunate enough to know him. He will be forever missed. The family has requested privacy at this time," the publicist said.

The statement did not specify the cause of death and explained that Wendt "passed away peacefully in his sleep at home" early Tuesday morning.

Wendt (Chicago, 1948) participated in the 275 episodes of the television sitcom set in a Boston bar, where he played the beer-loving Norm, a character that earned him six consecutive Emmy Award nominations.