Movies

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News abounds of heartfelt homages paid to actor George Wendt, who sadly passed away in his Los Angeles residence on May 20, 2025, at the ripe age of 76. Wendt garnered immense fame for embodying Norm Peterson on the hit sitcom Cheers from 1982 to 1993. His captivating portrayal earned him six consecutive Emmy nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. Additionally, he graced other sitcoms within the show’s universe with his guest appearances.

In the early stages of his acting journey, Wendt was initially involved with the improvisational theater group known as The Sound City. As he narrates, his initial duty was cleaning floors. However, once his skills were recognized, he swiftly moved forward and secured roles in both television and film productions. While performing with the troupe, he also encountered his future spouse, Bernadette Birkett. To put it simply, after that, their shared story became a part of history. For the remainder of his career, Wendt continued to be associated with numerous significant projects.

Here are George Wendt’s best movie and tv roles.

10
Lumber Store Guy in ‘The Little Rascals’ (1994)

Based on Hal Roach’s classic series of short films, The Little Rascals follows the story of a group of young friends who form an all-male club called the “He-Man’s Club for Disliking Girls.” However, their friendship is put to the test when one member develops feelings for a popular girl.

Untamable Kids

One of the storylines within the film features go-kart racing, making Wendt’s character a lumber yard employee who interacts with the young racers. As always, he balances his unique mix of humor and stern guidance. Amazingly enough. Donald Trump makes an appearance in this movie as an elderly businessman, coincidentally being the father of one of the racers. Will there be so much victory that we grow weary of it? Discover for yourself. Also, keep an eye out for a character named “Uh-Huh,” who speaks nothing but “Uh huh” throughout the entire movie.

9
Gus Bertoia in ‘Making the Grade’ (1982)

Nestled in the fictional Franklin High School of St. Louis, the storyline of Making the Grade unfolds, focusing on the interwoven personal and professional journeys of educators and pupils as they navigate the intricacies of public education. The staff roster includes a stern principal, an encouraging guidance counselor, and a physical education instructor portrayed by George Wendt.

Learning and Unlearning

Although Making the Grade didn’t have as long a run as many successful ’80s sitcoms, its early cancellation was beneficial because it opened up Wendt’s schedule, giving him the opportunity to join Cheers. Even though it faded into obscurity, this comedy gem excels in portraying the difficult lives of individuals navigating a harsh and unforgiving educational system. Be sure to catch Wendt’s “joke of the year” in the fourth episode.

8
Harry Finley in ‘Forever Young’ (1992)

Following his girlfriend entering a coma, the daring test pilot Daniel McCormick (Mel Gibson) decides to participate in a cryogenic study led by his scientist buddy Harry Finley (George Wendt). He views it as an opportunity to alleviate tension, but the experiment—initially planned for just one year—unexpectedly extends to 53 years. As Daniel awakens after all those decades, the film “Forever Young” promises a captivating exploration of what awaits him.

Toying with Science

During the peak of his popularity on “Cheers,” Wenton excelled in numerous “best supporting performance” rankings for this intriguingly portrayed, suspenseful sci-fi drama. This role was a departure from what audiences were accustomed to seeing him in as comedies, but he demonstrated his versatility by showing he could take on almost any challenge if given the opportunity. Gibson was equally captivated by Wenton’s endearing portrayal of a serviceman, brimming with courage and intelligence, who embodied humility.

7
George Coleman in ‘The George Wendt Show’ (1995)

Following the end of “Cheers”, Wendt redirected his attention towards his own sitcom titled “The George Wendt Show“. In this series, brothers George (played by Wendt) and Dan (portrayed by Pat Finn) manage a car garage in Madison, Wisconsin and also host a radio program discussing automotive repairs. However, they frequently encounter humorous, non-auto related situations.

Wild Brothers

In my view, Wendt’s gentle yet captivating style elevates what could have been just another routine sitcom. He consistently delivers his signature relatable charm to the series, demonstrating that even the most extraordinary events can add intrigue to an ordinary life. Regrettably, the show didn’t garner the viewership it deserved compared to iconic series like Cheers, ultimately leading to its cancellation. However, the eight episodes that are available are a must-watch due to their side-splitting humor and exceptional storytelling, making them standouts on television.

6
Bunny Baxter in ‘Guilty by Suspicion’ (1991)

The film “Guilty by Suspicion” portrays the struggles of prominent U.S. filmmaker David Merrill, played by Robert De Niro, upon his return from Paris. He finds himself under scrutiny by the masterminds behind the Hollywood Blacklist. Despite not being a Communist himself, he stands firm in his refusal to betray his friend, screenwriter Bunny Baxter (George Wendt). As expected, he endures significant repercussions for his decision.

A Bullseye on the Back

Stepping into the limelight as a supporter, I can’t help but express my admiration for Wendt’s remarkable work in Guilty by Suspicion, a gripping portrayal of a challenging era in Hollywood. Not only does his performance shine, but De Niro’s role is equally captivating. The cinematography and costume design are nothing short of stunning, details that deserve recognition. I can’t help but feel that the Oscars missed out on acknowledging this masterpiece, as it was director Irwin Winkler’s debut work. However, they chose to stay humble, and so we should rally our voices today: #JusticeForGuiltyBySuspicion, a testament to the undeniable talent that graced our screens in this remarkable film.

5
Jeff in ‘The Twilight Zone’ (1959 – 2003)

Enthusiasts continue to hold in high regard the most exceptional anthology series ever produced – The Twilight Zone. This iconic series and its subsequent reboots have consistently tackled chilling and intellectually stimulating tales that span across science fiction, thriller, fantasy, horror, and crime genres. Among the numerous talents gracing the show was George Wendt, who appeared in the episode titled, “The World Next Door.”

A ‘Black Mirror-esque’ Affair

As I sat down to watch this gripping tale, I found myself captivated by the moving portrayal of a man, much like myself in age, grappling with loss and bewilderment – that man being Jeff, a widower who makes a startling discovery within his own home: a portal to an alternate universe. In this parallel world, he encounters a version of his wife who is alive, but the twist is, the counterpart of himself meets an untimely end. The tantalizing possibility of a cross-universe romance unfolds against a backdrop of poignant emotion that holds you spellbound throughout the entire viewing experience.

4
Charlie in ‘Dreamscape’ (1984)

In the movie “Dreamscape,” a psychic teenager named Alex Gardner, played by Dennis Quaid, gets drafted into a secret government initiative where individuals like him learn to invade others’ dreams. However, things take a sinister turn when Bob Blair (Christopher Plummer), a sinister new figure, takes charge and intends to exploit the project for assassinations within dreamscapes. Fortunately, Charlie, a novelist with an interest in exposing conspiracies, steps up to aid Alex in his quest for truth.

Someone’s Watching Your Dreams

In this chilling science fiction thriller, director Joseph Ruben and actor Wendt deliver outstanding performances, veering away from comedy. The plot, though malevolent, is so captivating that you find yourself yearning for its reality. Dennis Quaid also delivers an exceptional performance, surpassing his previous work. Moreover, the dialogue in this fast-paced movie is as crisp and quick-witted as it gets.

3
Mike Shelby in ‘Sabrina the Teenage Witch’ (1996 – 2003)

The television series titled “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” centers around Sabrina, who is now 16 years old and unexpectedly learns she possesses magical abilities. This is a shift from the Archie Comics version where she had been aware of her powers since childhood. As she faces various trials and lives under the protective gaze of her two centuries-old aunts, Hilda (played by Caroline Rhea) and Zelda (Beth Broderick), Sabrina must maneuver through life’s complexities.

Life With Powers

This sharp analysis of adolescent life and accountability features an outstanding performance by Wendt as a newspaper manager, bringing many of his signature facial expressions with authentic Chicago flair. You’ll catch a clever shout-out to the hit series “Cheer” in the episode titled “I, Busybody.” In this scene, Mike walks into a coffee shop, and everyone lifts their cups in salute, echoing the iconic “Norm!” greeting from the classic sitcom.

2
Fat Sam in ‘Fletch’ (1985)

In the movie “Fletch,” character Irwin “Fletch” Fletcher, played by Chevy Chase, is a tenacious investigative journalist who frequently annoys his superior but consistently delivers results. During one of his undercover operations, targeting a drug ring on a Los Angeles beach, Fletch pretends to be a drug addict. While engaged in this ruse, a well-off individual offers him $50,000 to carry out an assassination – the wealthy man wants Fletch to end his life prematurely due to bone cancer. Will Fletch go through with it?

When the Deal is Too Good…

1
‘Cheers’ (1982 – 1993)

In the television series called “Cheers”, the story unfolds at a bar named Cheers located in Boston, where people usually go to mingle and find respite from their daily worries. The proprietor and chief bartender is Sam Malone (portrayed by Ted Danson), who used to be a ladies’ man and a former relief pitcher for the Boston Red Sox team. One of the frequent patrons at this bar is Norm, as portrayed by Wendt.

A Little Drink Never Hurts

During its broadcast, Cheers amassed an impressive 28 Emmy awards and birthed several offshoot series. From its opening theme (“Where Everybody Knows Your Name” by Gary Portnoy) to its exploration of life’s everyday intricacies, the show never fails to captivate audiences. Moreover, Wendt’s endearing character has inspired numerous cultural references in other productions. Here’s to saluting this ’80s sitcom masterpiece.

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2025-05-26 00:05

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