Actor George Wendt, who was known for playing the role of Norm Peterson on the long-running sitcom Cheers, has reportedly passed away at the age of 76.

According to reports from local media outlets, the star passed away during the morning hours of Tuesday. The heartbreaking news was confirmed by his publicist, Melissa Nathan.

His family was the next in line to speak on the matter in public and has now requested privacy during this period of mourning and grief.

Sources have confirmed that he passed away peacefully during his sleep while at his home. George was known to be the most loving and doting family man. He was famous in the industry as a well-loved friend and confidant to all those lucky enough to have known him. ‘He will be missed forever,’ his family shared.

Wendt was born in Chicago in 1948. He was said to be one of nine children. He worked at his father’s real estate firm in Chicago before he graduated from Rockhurst College.

In the year 1974, he began training in comedy at Chicago’s The Second City Theater. This is where he met Bernadette Birkett, whom he tied the knot with in 1978. He and his partner shared three kids together.