Ted Danson and the cast of "Cheers" mourn the passing of beloved actor George Wendt, who passed away at the age of 76.

Wendt's family reports that he passed away quietly while sleeping at home, leaving behind a legacy of loyalty, humor, and one of the cutest bar stools in comedy history.

Ted Danson Recalls His "Georgie"

In an emotional homage, Ted Danson, who portrayed Sam Malone, the former ballplayer-turned-bartender at the center of Cheers, told PEOPLE that he is "devastated to hear that Georgie is no longer with us."

"Georgie, you are loved." I am sending Bernadette and the kids my undying love.

Like an empty booth in the corner of a once-bustling pub, the weight of his words lingers. At a show like Cheers, which was never really about the drinks but rather about the people who consistently came and made the place seem like home, there is a sense of loss that clings to the walls.

Norm was a fixture in American popular culture, not just a fictional character.

Norm was more than just a character to millions of viewers; he was a presence. Known for his dependability, love of beer, and armory of one-liners, he was the person who always had his seat and his entrance style.

George Wendt epitomized a sort of everyman charm with his slow, heavy step and the constant feeling that he knew something you didn't. He was perfectly timed. He was genuine in his warmth. His laugh, which was half a giggle and half a grunt, had a way of getting under your skin and being there.

A Tradition of Faith, Jokes, and That Well-Known First Name

An unusual accomplishment in television, Wendt starred in all 275 episodes of Cheers over its 11-season run. Every week, audiences cheered Norm's name as he entered the pub, and they continued to do so. Delivered with a bone-dry humor that never tries too hard—and never needs to—his phrases were succinct but clever.

Wendt was renowned for his devotion, modesty, and passion for his work even off-screen. Despite not being the most dazzling star in the room, he was frequently the one that people remembered the most.

Additional Remembrances from the "Cheers" Family

Wendt's passing has caused grief throughout Hollywood, especially among his co-stars on Cheers, who worked together for over ten years to make television history. The general consensus is that the bar will never be the same without Norm, even if public statements are still being made.

A Silent Farewell to a Noisy Legacy

George Wendt gave us something ageless in a society that forgets too readily and moves too quickly. He reminded us that no matter what the day brings, there is comfort in showing up, dignity in comedy, and beauty in routine.

As fans revisit previous episodes and toast the man who brought Norm to life, it is difficult to escape feeling a tinge of bittersweet nostalgia. Now, in a cosmic rerun, George Wendt is walking into a celestial tavern and hearing the famous cry, "Norm!"

And somewhere there is a cold one waiting.