• Faith: Christian - Catholic
• Career: Actor
• Birthday:  October 17, 1948

George Wendt is an actor best known for playing Norm Peterson on the television sitcom "Cheers," which earned him 6 consecutive nominations for the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series.

George Robert Wendt III was born on October 17, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, into a large Irish Catholic family. He was the oldest of nine children, raised in a close-knit and devout household. His father, George Robert Wendt Jr., was a Navy officer and a realtor, while his mother, Loretta Mary (née Howard), was a homemaker. Growing up in a bustling household with eight siblings, Wendt developed a strong sense of family and community from an early age.

Wendt attended Campion High School, a Jesuit-run institution in Prairie du Chien, Wisconsin. The school's emphasis on discipline, education, and faith had a lasting impact on Wendt, reinforcing the values he had learned at home. After high school, he attended the University of Notre Dame, a Catholic university in Indiana, where he initially pursued a degree in economics. However, his interest in academics waned, and he eventually left Notre Dame.

Wendt later enrolled at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri, another Jesuit institution, where he graduated with a degree in economics. Despite his academic pursuits, Wendt's true passion lay in the arts, a passion he would eventually turn into a successful career.

After completing his education, George Wendt's career took an unexpected turn. In the early 1970s, he joined Chicago's renowned improvisational theater group, The Second City. It was here that Wendt honed his comedic skills and developed the improvisational style that would become his trademark.

In 1978, he married actress Bernadette Birkett, whom he met while working at The Second City. Birkett, known for her work in both theater and television, has appeared in various roles throughout her career. Interestingly, she provided the voice of Norm Peterson's unseen wife, Vera, on "Cheers." Together, Wendt and Birkett have five children: three sons and two daughters.

Wendt's big break came in 1982 when he was cast as Norm Peterson on the NBC sitcom "Cheers." The show became an instant hit, and Wendt's portrayal of the pleasant, beer-loving Norm quickly made him a fan favorite. Norm's famous entrance line, "Norm!" became one of the most iconic catchphrases in television history.

"Cheers" ran for eleven seasons, from 1982 to 1993. The show's success catapulted Wendt to stardom, and he became a beloved figure in American pop culture. His portrayal of Norm Peterson was so popular that he made guest appearances as the character on other television shows, including "Frasier," "Wings," and "The Simpsons."

After "Cheers" ended, Wendt continued to work steadily in television, film, and theater. He appeared in various movies, including "Fletch," "Gung Ho," and "Forever Young." Wendt also returned to his roots in theater, performing in productions such as "Art" and "Hairspray" on Broadway.

George Wendt's Religious Beliefs

George Wendt's Catholic faith has been a cornerstone of his life. Raised in a devout Catholic family, Wendt has always maintained a strong connection to his faith.

Wendt's Catholic faith is not something he wears on his sleeve, but it is deeply ingrained in who he is. He has often expressed gratitude for the blessings he has received and has spoken about the importance of humility and gratitude in his life. His faith has provided him with a sense of purpose and has helped him remain grounded amidst the pressures of fame. In interviews, Wendt has credited his Catholic upbringing with instilling in him a strong work ethic and a commitment to doing what is right.